About Endodontics
- What is endodontics?
- Endodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of the dental pulp — the soft tissue of nerves and blood vessels inside your tooth. When that tissue becomes infected or damaged, an endodontist removes it, cleans the canal system, and seals the tooth to prevent further infection. The goal is always to save your natural tooth.
- What is the difference between an endodontist and a general dentist?
- General dentists perform a wide range of dental procedures. Endodontists complete two or more additional years of specialist training after dental school, focusing exclusively on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the dental pulp and surrounding tissue. Complex root canal cases, retreatment, and endodontic surgery are our specialty.
- Why should I see an endodontist rather than my general dentist for a root canal?
- General dentists are trained to perform root canal treatment and handle many cases effectively. However, for complex anatomy, retreatment of a previous root canal, suspected cracks, or cases where a standard X-ray does not give a complete picture, an endodontist specialist has both the additional training and the specific equipment — including surgical microscopes and CBCT 3D imaging — to see and treat what others may miss.
Before Your Visit
- Do I need a referral?
- No. You are welcome to contact us directly at any of our four East Bay locations. Most of our patients are referred by their general dentist, and we always send a full clinical report back to your dentist after treatment — but a referral is not required to book.
- What should I bring to my first appointment?
- Please bring your referral slip from your dentist (if you have one), any recent dental X-rays, your insurance card, and a list of all medications you are currently taking. If you have a medical condition — such as diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves or joint replacements, rheumatic fever, or a condition requiring antibiotic pre-medication — please let us know when you call.
- Is a parent or guardian required for children?
- Yes. A parent or legal guardian must be present for the consultation visit for all patients under 18 years of age.
- What happens at my first appointment?
- Your first appointment is a consultation. Your doctor will review your X-rays, examine the tooth, explain the diagnosis in plain language, and walk you through your treatment options. You will have time to ask questions. A written cost estimate will be provided before any treatment begins. In straightforward cases, treatment can sometimes be completed the same day. Complex cases are scheduled for a second appointment.
During Treatment
- Will a root canal hurt?
- The tooth is fully numbed before treatment begins. Most patients are surprised by how manageable the experience is — the discomfort they feared rarely matches what they feel in the chair. The procedure itself should cause no pain. Some soreness afterward is normal and typically resolves within a few days.
- Are X-rays safe?
- Yes. We use digital X-ray technology, which keeps radiation levels to the absolute minimum. X-rays are necessary for accurate diagnosis — we cannot safely assess your tooth and the surrounding bone without them.
- What is GentleWave?
- GentleWave is an advanced cleaning system that uses Multisonic Ultracleaning® technology — sound waves and fluid energy — to clean the full root canal system, including lateral canals and microscopic spaces that mechanical files cannot reach. We use GentleWave as our standard on every patient, not as an upgrade. Learn more about GentleWave
- Does a cracked tooth always need a root canal?
- No — it depends on how far the crack has progressed. A fractured cusp that has not reached the pulp typically needs only a crown. A crack that has reached or damaged the pulp does require root canal treatment. CBCT imaging tells us exactly which situation you are in before any treatment begins. About cracked teeth
After Treatment
- What happens after my root canal is finished?
- We send a full clinical report to your general dentist. You should contact their office to arrange a follow-up restoration — typically a crown — within a few weeks of completing treatment with us. Your dentist will advise on the appropriate type of restoration to protect the tooth.
- Do I need a crown after a root canal?
- In most cases, yes. A crown protects the tooth from fracture, which is more likely after the pulp has been removed. Your general dentist will confirm what restoration is appropriate for your specific tooth once treatment is complete.
- Can a treated tooth cause problems in the future?
- Endodontic treatment has a high success rate and most treated teeth go on to function normally for many years. Occasionally, infection can recur — often because of missed anatomy, new decay, or a restoration that did not seal properly. If that happens, retreatment or endodontic surgery may be an option. We are always available to assess a tooth that has been treated here if you have concerns. About retreatment
Insurance & Payment
- Do you accept insurance?
- Yes. Endospecialists is an in-network provider with most major dental insurance plans. Being in-network means your fees are typically covered at a higher percentage than if you were treated by an out-of-network provider. We check your benefits before your appointment so you know your estimated patient portion before treatment begins. Insurance & financial information
- What payment methods do you accept?
- We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Payment is due at the time of service. Please call us to ask about additional payment options.
- What if my insurance does not cover the full cost?
- Any charges not covered by your insurance plan are your responsibility. We are clear about this from the start — you will receive a written estimate of your patient portion before treatment begins. If your carrier pays less than estimated, we will send you a statement for the balance. If they pay more, we will send you a refund.
Call us. We would rather you ask.
Same-day access · Four East Bay locations · No referral required