What is an Endodontist?
Endodontics is a specialty within dentistry focused on diagnosing and treating problems inside the tooth — especially the pulp and root canals.
An endodontist is a dentist who has completed at least two additional years of advanced training after dental school. This extra training prepares them to perform root canal therapy, retreatments, endodontic surgery, and other procedures designed to relieve pain and save natural teeth.
At Endodontic Partners, our doctors combine advanced training, modern techniques, and leading-edge technology to provide the highest quality of care with the best outcomes.
Please see what our patients have to say about their experience with us!
Advanced Education & Training
After completing four years of dental school, endodontists complete at least two additional years of specialty training. This advanced education focuses on:
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Diagnosing tooth-related pain
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Root canal therapy and retreatment
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Endodontic surgery
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Treating traumatic dental injuries
This depth of training ensures patients receive care from true experts in preserving teeth.
Endodontists: Specialists in Saving Teeth
Endodontists are often called the “root canal specialists.” Unlike general dentists, who perform a broad range of procedures, endodontists focus almost exclusively on treating the inside of the tooth.
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The average endodontist performs 25 root canals per week, compared to just 2 for a general dentist.
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This level of specialization means root canal treatment is more efficient, precise, and comfortable, with a high success rate.
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Endodontic Partners has been serving patients in Baltimore and surrounding communities for over 30 years, dedicated to saving natural teeth.
Expertise in Pain Management
One of the biggest concerns patients have is pain — but root canal therapy is designed to relieve, not cause, pain.
Endodontists are experts in administering anesthetics, even for patients who have trouble getting or staying numb. With modern techniques, most patients experience little to no discomfort during treatment, and 90% report immediate relief afterward.
Leading-Edge Technology
Endodontists use tools and techniques not typically found in a general dental office, including:
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3D digital imaging to visualize complex root canal systems
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Dental dams to isolate the tooth and prevent bacteria from re-entering
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Surgical microscopes to locate microfractures and calcified canals
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Rotary nickel-titanium (NiTi) instruments for precise cleaning and shaping
This advanced technology ensures greater accuracy, comfort, and long-term success in saving teeth.
See video below to learn why Endodontists are your best choice for a root canal treatment to save your natural teeth.
Why Choose Endodontic Partners?
At Endodontic Partners, our specialists have decades of combined experience, advanced training, and access to the latest technology. We are committed to:
- Over 30 years serving the Baltimore area
- Practice dedicated exclusively to endodontics
- Experienced team of endodontic specialists
- Advanced technology, including CBCT imaging and surgical microscopes
- Two convenient Maryland locations
- Compassionate, patient-focused care
- Close coordination with your general dentist
Frequently Asked Questions About Endodontists
Why should I see an endodontist instead of my regular dentist?
General dentists provide comprehensive dental care, while endodontists are specialists who focus exclusively on diagnosing tooth pain, performing root canal treatment, and saving natural teeth. With two or more years of advanced specialty training after dental school, endodontists are especially qualified to treat complex cases and help preserve teeth that might otherwise be lost.
Are endodontists better at performing root canals?
Endodontists receive advanced specialty training focused entirely on root canal treatment and related procedures. Because they perform these treatments every day, they have extensive experience managing both routine and complex cases. They also use specialized technology, such as dental operating microscopes and 3D CBCT imaging, to provide precise, efficient treatment.
What is the difference between an endodontist and a general dentist?
A general dentist provides preventive and restorative care, including cleanings, fillings, crowns, and routine dental treatment. An endodontist is a specialist who focuses on diagnosing tooth pain and treating problems inside the tooth, including root canal therapy, root canal retreatment, and endodontic surgery. Many general dentists refer difficult or complex cases to an endodontist.
How many root canals do endodontists perform?
Root canal treatment is the primary focus of an endodontist’s practice. Because they perform these procedures every day, endodontists typically complete far more root canals than general dentists. This experience helps them efficiently diagnose and treat even the most challenging cases.
When should I see an endodontist?
You should consider seeing an endodontist if you have severe or persistent tooth pain, lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when biting, swelling around a tooth, a cracked tooth, dental trauma, or a tooth that has become discolored. Early evaluation can often improve the chances of saving your natural tooth.
Are root canals painful?
Modern root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain—not cause it. With advanced techniques and effective local anesthesia, most patients report that having a root canal feels similar to receiving a dental filling. In fact, the procedure removes the infected or inflamed tissue that is causing your discomfort.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canal treatments can be completed in one appointment lasting between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on the tooth and the complexity of the case. Some teeth or retreatment procedures may require additional time or a second visit.
Can an endodontist save a tooth another dentist recommends extracting?
In many cases, yes. Endodontists specialize in evaluating teeth with complex infections, previous root canals, cracks, or traumatic injuries. After a thorough examination and advanced imaging, we can determine whether your natural tooth can be successfully saved. Preserving your natural tooth is usually the best option whenever possible.
What happens if I delay a root canal?
Delaying treatment can allow the infection to spread deeper into the tooth and surrounding bone. Over time, pain may worsen, swelling can develop, and the tooth may become more difficult—or even impossible—to save. Seeking treatment early often leads to a simpler procedure and a better long-term outcome.
Can an endodontist treat dental emergencies?
Yes. Endodontists are specially trained to diagnose and treat many dental emergencies involving severe tooth pain, infections, dental abscesses, cracked teeth, and traumatic injuries. Prompt treatment can relieve pain quickly and improve the chances of saving your natural tooth.
What technology does an endodontist use?
Endodontists use advanced technology to improve diagnosis, precision, and patient comfort. This may include 3D CBCT imaging, dental operating microscopes, digital X-rays, electronic apex locators, ultrasonic instruments, and nickel-titanium rotary files. These technologies help diagnose problems more accurately and support successful treatment outcomes.
Why choose Endodontic Partners?
At Endodontic Partners, endodontic care is all we do. Our experienced specialists use advanced technology and evidence-based techniques to diagnose tooth pain, perform root canal treatment, and help patients save their natural teeth whenever possible. With convenient locations in Lutherville and Bel Air, we are committed to providing compassionate, comfortable care while working closely with your general dentist to ensure the best possible outcome.
We hope that our website helps answer your questions regarding endodontic dental care. However, please feel free to contact us if something is left unclear Lutherville-Timonium 410-821-5553, Bel Air Office 410-836-7800.