Know the difference between Endodontics and Orthodontics

Your smile is beautiful.

Let’s be honest. Maintaining that beautiful smile is not an easy task. It is more than brushing and flossing. Sometimes, you might encounter dental issues that need special dental care. These issues can range anywhere from misalignment of the jaw to pain in the root of teeth.

Two such specializations within dentistry are endodontics and orthodontics. The difference between endodontics and orthodontics is minute yet crucial to understand if you want to take proper and regular care of a beautiful set of teeth.

What is Endodontics?

Endodontics is a medical practice that focuses on the root canal issues. It is specifically focused on nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. When the pulp gets infected or inflamed due to nerve decay, deep trauma, or other factors, it can cause significant pain and discomfort. This is where ‘endodontists’ come in. Endodontists are also referred to as ‘root canal specialists.’

What Procedures are Performed by Endodontists?

• Root Canal Therapy: Sometimes the infected pulp tissue needs cleaning and disinfecting of the root canals. Furthermore, it might also require sealing the tooth to prevent additional infection. The root canal turns out to be the most effective method to save the tooth.
• Apicoectomy: In some cases, the infection persists at the tip of the root. An apicoectomy involves surgically removing the infected tissue at the root tip and sealing the end of the root.
• Management of Dental Trauma: Injuries to the teeth can damage the pulp. Endodontists are skilled at diagnosing and treating such dental trauma.

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics department of dentistry deals with the alignment of teeth and jaws. Misaligned teeth cause a variety of problems. It might include difficulty in chewing, speaking, and maintaining oral hygiene.

What Treatments are Offered by Orthodontists?

• Braces: You must’ve heard of metal braces. It is the most common example of orthodontic treatment. They use a contraption of brackets and elastics that move the teeth in the desired movement.
• Aligners: Invisalign or clear aligners offer a comfortable and invisible way to straighten teeth.
• Headgear: In some cases, orthodontists may utilize headgear in conjunction with braces to apply additional pressure and correct jaw discrepancies.
• Palatal Expanders: For younger patients with narrow jaws, palatal expanders can create space for proper tooth eruption and alignment.

Choosing the Right Specialist

If you are experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling, these could be signs of a pulp infection, and a consultation with an endodontist might be necessary.

On the contrary, if you have concerns about crooked teeth, crowded teeth, or misaligned bites, an orthodontist can help create a treatment plan to achieve a straighter smile. In many cases, your general dentist will be able to diagnose the issue and refer you to the appropriate specialist.

Maintaining a Healthy Smile at Gokuldas Hospital

Gokuldas Hospital is committed to providing comprehensive dental care, including specialized services like endodontics and orthodontics.

Our team of highly qualified endodontists and orthodontists are equipped with the latest technology and expertise to diagnose and treat a wide range of dental issues. Whether you need to save a tooth or achieve a beautiful smile, we offer personalized treatment plans to restore your oral health and confidence.

Understanding the distinction between endodontics and orthodontics empowers you to make informed decisions about your dental care. By seeking the expertise of qualified specialists, you can ensure the health and functionality of your teeth, ultimately leading to a lifetime of confident smiles.