Endodontists are specialists in saving teeth –- also known as root canal dentists.
“Endo” is the Greek word for “inside” and “odont” is Greek for “tooth.” Endodontic treatment treats the inside of the tooth. Root canal treatment is one type of endodontic treatment.
Since patients are given anesthesia, a root canal isn't more painful than a regular dental procedure, such as a filling or getting a wisdom tooth removed.
Root canals are needed for a cracked tooth from injury or genetics, a deep cavity, or issues from a previous filling.