Table of Contents

1. Learning the Difference: Periodontist vs. Endodontist
2. The Scope of Treatments and Services
3. When to See a Periodontist or an Endodontist
4. Newtown Dentistry: In-House Dental Specialists

You may follow a good daily routine for keeping your teeth healthy and clean, and you see your dentist regularly, but sometimes certain conditions or complex issues that require a dental specialist come up. Periodontists and endodontists are dental specialists who patients often need to see, and, more often than not, these specialists are not a part of your general dentist’s practice. Each is focused on distinct aspects of dental health that are vital for maintaining not just a healthy smile, but your overall well-being. Here’s a simple breakdown of the difference between the specialists and when you may need to see them.

Learning the Difference: Periodontist vs. Endodontist

While both periodontists and endodontists are integral to dental health, their areas of expertise differ.

Periodontists are concerned with your gum health. Specializing in periodontics, they focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, as well as the placement and maintenance of dental implants. They are experts in the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth, addressing issues from gum inflammation to severe gum diseases and performing procedures like deep cleanings, gum grafts, and implant placements.

Endodontists, on the other hand, are root canal specialists. Endodontics centers on the treatment of the dental pulp and the tissues surrounding the tooth roots. Endodontists are adept at performing root canal treatments, treating dental trauma, and diagnosing tooth pain. Their expertise lies in saving teeth, ensuring that even teeth under severe distress can continue to function properly.

The Scope of Treatments and Services

The treatments offered by periodontists and endodontists reflect their specialized training and focus areas.

Periodontists provide services including:

• Comprehensive treatment for gum disease
• Cosmetic periodontal procedures to improve gum aesthetics
• Dental implant placement and maintenance
• Gum graft surgery for receding gums
• Bone grafting to support implants

Endodontists specialize in procedures such as:

• Root canal therapy to save infected teeth
• Surgery to address issues not solved by traditional root canals
• Treatment of dental injuries, including knocked-out teeth
• Management of tooth pain and infection

When to See a Periodontist or an Endodontist

Recognizing the signs that may call for a visit to a periodontist or an endodontist can ensure timely, effective treatment.

• You should see a periodontist if you notice signs of gum disease such as swollen, bleeding, or receding gums; if you’re considering dental implants; or if you have a complex case of periodontal disease requiring specialized care.
• You should see an endodontist if you experience severe tooth pain or prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, or if you’ve suffered dental trauma. Endodontists are also the go-to specialists for root canal treatments or any complications arising from previous root canal procedures.

Newtown Dentistry: In-House Dental Specialists

Not all dental practices have periodontal and endodontic specialists in-house. Newtown Dentistry does! Whether you are a patient in our general adult practice or have been referred to us by your dentist, having us treat your periodontal or endodontic issues comes with many benefits unique to our practice.

• Experienced Specialists: Our team of periodontists and endodontists brings years of specialized training and experience, ensuring that you receive care that’s not just effective but also tailored to your specific needs.
• Advanced Technology: We utilize cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment technologies, from digital imaging to the latest in surgical techniques, enhancing the precision and comfort of your treatment.
• Comfort-Centric Adult Practice: Our practice is designed with the needs of adult patients in mind. From our serene, adult-themed environment to our emphasis on patient comfort and convenience, every aspect of your care is designed to be as stress-free and pleasant as possible.
• Convenient Scheduling: We understand the busy lives of our patients. Our scheduling options are flexible, accommodating same-day dental treatments when possible, and ensuring that your dental care fits seamlessly into your life.

At Newtown Dentistry, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge and providing personalized consultations to ensure you understand your treatment options. Request an appointment today or call us at (215) 774-5193 to learn more about our periodontic and endodontic services.