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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a doctor for Root Canal?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a doctor for Root Canal, book an appointment, and see the doctor within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of doctors for Root Canal in your area who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a doctor for Root Canal who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for doctors for Root Canal who take your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a doctor for Root Canal?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find doctors for Root Canal and book appointments instantly. You can search for doctors for Root Canal or any other visit reason. Then, enter your desired appointment location and choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Root Canal doctor?

When you search for Root Canal doctors on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see doctors who match your preferences.


How can I find a Root Canal doctor who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Root Canal doctors with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Root Canal doctor?

You can use Zocdoc to find Root Canal doctors who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Root Canal doctor online?

Root Canal doctors on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Root Canal doctors who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Root Canal doctor online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Root Canal doctors who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Root Canal doctor who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Root Canal doctor who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Root Canal doctor who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Root Canal doctors. Many Root Canal doctors offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


What is an endodontist?

An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating issues inside the tooth, especially problems with the dental pulp and root tissues. They work to relieve pain while saving your natural tooth. Endodontists are experts in rescuing teeth, even those that are severely damaged or decayed.


Is an endodontist the same as a root canal specialist?


Yes, endodontists are the same as root canal specialists. They are commonly called this because their most recognized service is root canal procedures.


When should I see an endodontist?

While a general dentist can manage many routine dental issues, you may need a referral to an endodontist for more complex problems involving the tooth's interior. You might be referred to an endodontist if you experience:

  • Lingering tooth pain
  • Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold
  • Tenderness in the tooth when touching or chewing
  • Swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gum
  • Discoloration of the tooth

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you can schedule a visit with an endodontist near you on Zocdoc with just a few clicks!


What conditions do endodontists treat?

Endodontists treat issues with the soft tissues inside the tooth, called dental pulp, and surrounding tissues. They address problems that go beyond the tooth's surface to save natural teeth and relieve pain. Here are some conditions they treat:

  • Pulp inflammation or infection (Pulpitis): Deep cavities or dental work can allow bacteria to enter the pulp, causing inflammation or infection, which can potentially lead to a tooth abscess. Endodontists perform root canal therapy to remove damaged tissue and save the tooth.
  • Dental trauma: Accidents can crack, dislodge, or knock out a tooth. Endodontists can reposition and stabilize the tooth or treat the root to prevent infection.
  • Complications from previous dental work: A tooth that has had a root canal can become reinfected or not heal. Endodontists re-open the tooth, clean the canals, and resolve new issues, including ongoing pain from nerve irritation following a filling or crown.


What does an endodontist do?

An endodontist specializes in issues with dental pulp and root tissues. Here’s what they can do:

  • Advanced diagnosis: Endodontists use tools like 3D imaging and microscopes to find the source of your pain.
  • Root canal therapy: This treatment consists of removing infected pulp, cleaning root canals, and sealing them to prevent further infection.
  • Endodontic retreatment: If a tooth with a root canal becomes infected again, the endodontist can redo the treatment by reopening the tooth, removing the old filling, and cleaning and refilling the canals.
  • Apicoectomy (root-end surgery): If a root canal doesn’t clear an infection, an apicoectomy may be needed. The endodontist makes a small cut in the gum to remove infected tissue at the root's tip and seals the canal. This is typically a last resort to save the tooth.


Endodontist vs. Periodontist: What’s the difference?

Endodontists treat the dental pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth, addressing issues like disease or injury. In contrast, periodontists concentrate on the gums and the bone supporting teeth, specializing in preventing and treating gum disease as well as placing dental implants.


What happens during endodontic treatment?

Endodontic treatment, or root canal, treats infection or inflammation in the tooth's soft tissue, called the pulp. Here's what happens during the procedure:

  • Anesthesia and preparation: The endodontist numbs the area around your tooth and uses a “dental dam” to keep it clean and dry.
  • Accessing the pulp: A tiny opening is made in the tooth to have a way into the pulp chamber and root canals.
  • Cleaning the root canals: Small instruments are used to remove the infected pulp, and then the canals are cleaned and disinfected.
  • Filling the canals: The cleaned canals are filled with a rubbery material known as gutta-percha and are sealed with an adhesive.
  • Sealing the tooth: A temporary filling closes the opening until your endodontist restores the tooth.
  • Final restoration: After a root canal, return to your dentist to get a permanent crown or restoration to protect and restore the tooth.

The process is similar to a regular filling and usually takes one or two appointments.


How do I choose the best endodontist?

When selecting an endodontist, ask your general dentist for a referral and check the specialist's credentials. Ensure they use advanced technology, accept your insurance, and have convenient office hours. Reading patient reviews can provide insight into their communication style and satisfaction. Zocdoc can help you filter endodontists based on these criteria to find the right provider!

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

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