Endodontics
The dental specialists whose whole job is saving your natural tooth.
What does an endodontist do?
Endodontists are dentists with additional specialty training in the inside of the tooth: the pulp and root canals. Their signature procedure is root canal treatment, which removes infected or inflamed pulp so a natural tooth can be kept rather than pulled. They also retreat root canals that didn't heal, perform small surgical procedures at the root tip, and treat traumatic tooth injuries.
Most people arrive by referral: a general dentist finds deep decay, infection, or a tooth that stays painful and sends you to the specialist whose entire practice is exactly that problem. General dentists also perform many root canals themselves; the complicated ones go to endodontists.
What to expect, and how to choose
Modern root canal treatment is performed with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable; the severe pain people associate with root canals is usually the infected tooth beforehand, which treatment relieves. Practical checks before booking: credentials (on every ProviderQuoHealth profile), which dental coverage applies and what it covers, since dental plans are separate from medical insurance, and how soon the practice can see you when a tooth is acutely painful.
Some situations shouldn't wait: facial swelling that is spreading or affecting swallowing or breathing needs emergency care, so call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department, and a knocked-out permanent tooth needs a dentist immediately, because time matters. Don't search a directory in an emergency.
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Endodontics on ProviderQuoHealth
Frequently asked
Does a root canal hurt?
The procedure is performed with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. The severe pain associated with root canals is usually the infected tooth beforehand; treatment is what relieves it. Your endodontist will talk through comfort options.
Should I see my dentist or an endodontist first for tooth pain?
Either can be the entry point. Many people start with their general dentist, who treats what they can and refers complex cases; going straight to an endodontist can make sense for severe or persistent tooth pain. Confirm coverage with your dental plan either way.
When is a dental problem an emergency?
Facial swelling that spreads or affects swallowing or breathing needs emergency care: call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. A knocked-out permanent tooth needs a dentist immediately. For severe tooth pain without those signs, call a dental practice promptly and ask to be seen urgently.
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About our medical review process
The editorial health content on this page was reviewed by Myra A. Jones BSN, RN, CCM, a registered nurse, for medical accuracy and adherence to current clinical standards as of July 7, 2026. Provider listings are directory data from the public NPPES registry and provider submissions; they are not part of clinical review. ProviderQuoHealth’s health content is reviewed by licensed healthcare professionals before publication and re-checked when the content materially changes.
Important: Not Medical Advice
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