An orthodontist does not perform root canal procedures; this is a common point of confusion due to the similar-sounding names of dental specialties. Dentistry is a broad medical field with various specialized areas of focus, each requiring additional years of post-dental school training. Orthodontists dedicate their practice to a specific set of treatments, distinct from procedures needed to resolve internal tooth infection. Understanding the precise role of each practitioner clarifies who to see for different dental issues.
The Primary Role of an Orthodontist
An orthodontist specializes in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting irregularities in the positioning of the teeth and jaws, known as malocclusion. This specialist undergoes two to three years of focused education beyond dental school to master the mechanics of guiding tooth movement and facial development. Their treatment plans focus on improving a patient’s bite, aligning crooked teeth, and fixing issues like overbites, underbites, and spacing problems.
Orthodontic tools include braces, clear aligners, retainers, and other specialized appliances designed to exert controlled forces on the teeth and bone. Their work centers on the structural and aesthetic alignment of the mouth, not on treating internal tooth disease or decay. The goal is to achieve proper function and a harmonious smile, which improves overall oral health by making teeth easier to clean and reducing excessive wear.
The Specialists Who Perform Root Canals
Root canals treat the soft tissue inside the tooth, called the dental pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When this pulp becomes infected or damaged, typically from deep decay, trauma, or a crack, a root canal is necessary to save the tooth. The procedure involves removing the infected tissue, cleaning and shaping the inner canals, and sealing the space to prevent further infection.
The two types of practitioners who perform this treatment are general dentists and endodontists. An endodontist is a specialist who focuses on the dental pulp, having completed an additional two to three years of advanced training solely in this area. While many general dentists perform routine root canals, endodontists handle complex cases and utilize specialized equipment, making them the experts in saving teeth.
When Orthodontic Treatment Requires Root Canal Consultation
Although an orthodontist does not perform root canals, they may be the first to notice the need for one during treatment. X-rays taken before or during orthodontic care can reveal pre-existing issues like deep decay or an abscessed tooth requiring endodontic intervention. A tooth that suffered past trauma may also become symptomatic as it is moved, requiring a root canal to maintain its viability.
When such an issue is discovered, the orthodontist refers the patient to a general dentist or an endodontist for the procedure. The specialists then coordinate care, ensuring the root canal does not interfere with the ongoing movement of the teeth. Once the infected tooth is successfully treated and stabilized, the orthodontic movement can continue as planned.