Dental
Tips For Choosing An Endodontist (Root Canal)
By
Mar 25, 2010 - 7:46:07 AM

(HealthNewsDigest.com)-If any of the estimated 15 million root canals performed this year will be on your teeth, consider selecting an endodontist to do the job.

Why Endodontists

Explains Dr. Gerald N. Glickman of the American Association of Endodontists, "With their use of advanced technologies and expertise in administering anesthesia, endodontists perform virtually painless root canal treatments that can last a lifetime."

He added:

• Endodontists have two to three additional years of advanced training beyond dental school.

• Endodontists typically perform 25 root canal treatments each week; general dentists perform fewer than two.

• Endodontists are experts in pain management and use leading-edge equipment, as well as microsurgical techniques to improve patient comfort and save natural teeth.

What To Look For

Dr. Glickman offers four tips for selecting an endodontist:

1. Cover the basics. Look for an endodontist who is both available and accessible. Many endodontists have convenient hours and their practices are structured to handle emergency visits. Ask whether specific endodontists accept your insurance plan or offer financing options.

2. Look for a solid track record. Ask the endodontist about his or her additional education and training and how frequently he or she performs root canals. Ask your dentist why you need the procedure; then choose an experienced endodontist who has dealt with issues similar to yours. Association members receive ongoing news and education on the latest research and technologies to help them stay at the forefront of the specialty. Some endodontists also are board certified, which means they have successfully passed a number of rigorous exams beyond their specialty training.

3. Ask about equipment. The most up-to-date endodontic equipment includes operating microscopes and rotary instrumentation that make getting to the "root" of a dental problem easier and faster. Endodontists are more likely than general dentists to have the most advanced equipment, but find out specifically how the endodontist's equipment will help during the procedure.

4. Look for long-term relationships. Find out whether the endodontist has an ongoing partnership with your general dentist. The endodontist should collaborate with your dentist on a treatment plan and, after a root canal, both should continue to monitor the success of the procedure.

Learn More

For more information on endodontists or to find one, visit www.aae.org or call (800) 872-3636.

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