When it comes to pain and your mouth, there’s only so much you as a human can take after a while. Whether it’s sensitivity, pain while eating or drinking, or swelling of the gums, after some time, you know you need to call a professional. If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it may be time to talk with your doctor about choosing an endodontist to provide the services you might need.

After discussing with your care provider your options and receiving a list of potential Endodontists, it would be wise to schedule consultations to ask them the following important questions to find out if they are the right fit for you.

What Kind of Training Do You Have?

To practice endodontics, a specialist must complete four years at an accredited dental school, and then two additional years of specialized education at an accredited postdoctoral endodontics program. To complete these programs, candidates learn the latest science and technology of endodontics, as well as experience supervised, hands-on practice in dental clinics.

Look for a specialist who has completed all of these studies at an American Dental Association-accredited program. It helps to also ask if each endodontist has a diplomate status in the American Board of Endodontics, which is a voluntary process that some choose to take.

What Services Do You Provide?

Although a root canal is the most common endodontic procedure, and is most likely provided by any endodontic specialist, it may be important for you to find out what other services they may provide.

For example, an endodontist who provides emergency services for traumatic injuries may be an important resource in a sticky situation. Or, if you have heightened anxiety when it comes to dental treatment, you should look for a specialist who has sedation options. Also ask for how they handle pediatric procedures in children if you have a family who may also be in need of their services. Whatever your situation, see how they accommodate your needs.

What Pain Management Do You Offer?

Endodontists understand how to treat pain in their patients, and pain management is one of the main goals an endodontist has when treating their patients. This makes it a good idea for patients to ask about the different pain management options an endodontist offers, as this allows them to make a choice that is right for them. This includes finding out more about any pain management options available after undergoing treatment.

Some practices stick with tried and true techniques that are reliable while others break into new, potentially even less painful methods based on research that has come out. Be sure to ask them about how these techniques have worked for other patients who have used them.

What Do Services Cost? Do they Take Your Insurance?

While your preferences may be subjective in nature to what you like or don’t like, financing and budgeting is much more objective. If you are in need of specialized dental services, you do not want to feel like you have to postpone the procedure due to financial concerns.

Find a doctor who accepts your insurance or offers financing options with which you are comfortable. Seek out an endodontist who will give you clear answers of your costs and options up front, this way you feel comfortable making the most informed decision on your oral health.

Is their Office Location and Hours Convenient for You and Your Family?

This may seem straightforward, but it can be the clinching factor in whether or not you choose one practice over another.

Is their office close to your work or home? Is it easy to get to and from? What are their hours like? Do they offer emergency hours or services? Better yet, what do reviews from current patients say about their wait times and accessibility? This will help to provide answers that are not always clear-cut during a consultation.

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If endodontic services are something you are wanting to learn more about and would like to schedule a consultation with our staff at Endodontic Specialists, feel free to give our office a call today at (719) 599-7665. We would love to schedule some time to meet you and answer all your questions!