When your general dentist refers you to an endodontist for root canal treatment, you might wonder: Is this really necessary? Could my regular dentist handle it? The answer depends on the complexity of the case — but there are important reasons why specialists consistently achieve better outcomes for endodontic procedures.
At Grandview Endodontics, our team of board-certified specialists treat patients across Chino, Fontana, and Moreno Valley who have been referred for complex or routine root canal therapy alike. Here's what sets an endodontist apart — and why that difference can be critical to saving your natural tooth.
The Training Difference
Both general dentists and endodontists complete dental school. After that, the paths diverge significantly. Endodontists complete an additional 2–3 years of advanced postgraduate training focused exclusively on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the dental pulp and periapical tissues.
During this residency, endodontists perform thousands of root canal procedures — far more than a general dentist would encounter over an entire career. This intensive, focused experience develops a level of technical proficiency and diagnostic skill that general dentistry training cannot replicate.
In addition, endodontists are trained to manage complex anatomical variations in root canal systems, treat teeth that have previously failed root canal therapy (retreatment), and perform surgical procedures such as apicoectomies when non-surgical treatment is insufficient.
Side by Side: Endodontist vs. General Dentist
Endodontist
- 2–3 years of specialist postgraduate residency
- Performs root canals exclusively — all day, every day
- Surgical operating microscope as standard equipment
- 3D cone beam CT imaging for complex diagnosis
- Treats retreatment failures and surgical cases
- Higher success rates for complex anatomy cases
General Dentist
- Broad training across all dental disciplines
- Can perform routine root canals on straightforward cases
- Standard dental X-ray equipment (2D)
- Typically refers complex or multi-canal cases to a specialist
- Provides ongoing preventive and restorative care
- Places the permanent crown after root canal completion
Advanced Technology Endodontists Use
One of the clearest practical differences between an endodontic specialist and a general dentist is the technology available during treatment:
The surgical operating microscope is perhaps the most significant technological advantage. It allows endodontists to identify and treat calcified canals, tiny accessory canals, and root fractures that would be impossible to detect with standard equipment — which is often the difference between saving and losing a tooth.
When Should You See an Endodontist?
Your general dentist will refer you to an endodontist in the following situations:
- Complex root anatomy — teeth with many canals (molars), curved roots, or calcified canal systems
- Retreatment cases — when a previous root canal has failed and symptoms have returned
- Surgical cases — when non-surgical root canal therapy cannot fully resolve the infection (apicoectomy)
- Diagnostic uncertainty — when the cause of tooth pain is unclear and specialized testing is needed
- Patient preference — many patients choose to see a specialist for any root canal to benefit from the highest level of expertise
From our doctors: We work in close partnership with your general dentist. Once root canal treatment is complete, we refer you back to them for the permanent crown. Think of it as a team approach — each specialist doing what they do best.
Board-Certified Endodontists Serving Southern California
Experience the Specialist Difference
Our board-certified endodontists bring advanced training, technology, and focused expertise to every case. Serving patients in Chino, Fontana, and Moreno Valley.
Request a ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a referral to see an endodontist?
Most patients are referred by their general dentist, but you can also contact our office directly to schedule a consultation. We welcome self-referrals.
Q: Will my insurance cover an endodontist?
Most dental insurance plans cover endodontic specialists at the same benefit level as general dentists for covered procedures. Our team can verify your benefits before your appointment.
Q: After the root canal, do I still need to see my regular dentist?
Yes — after we complete the root canal, you return to your general dentist for the permanent crown. We work in partnership with your dentist to ensure seamless care.