Periodontist vs Endodontist: What’s the Difference and Who Should You See?
When something feels “off” with your teeth or gums, knowing which dental specialist to visit can be confusing. Two of the most commonly mixed-up specialists are periodontists and endodontists. Both play important roles in keeping your oral health in top shape, but they focus on very different areas.
Below, we break down their differences in a clear, human-like way. We’ll also use insights from some experts, which explains that an endodontist treats the inside of the tooth, while a periodontist cares for the gums, bone, and supporting structures. Understanding these differences will help you make the right choice when dental issues arise.
What Is an Endodontist?
An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in diagnosing and treating issues inside the tooth. This includes the pulp, nerves, and root canals. They’re often referred to as root canal specialists because that’s the treatment they perform most often.
What an Endodontist Does
Endodontists are experts in:
- Root canal treatments to remove infected or inflamed pulp
- Retreatment of previous root canals if complications arise
- Saving natural teeth that might otherwise need extraction
- Managing tooth injuries, cracks, and fractures
An endodontist specializes in treating the inside of teeth, including root canals and tooth pain. You would see an endodontist for issues like severe tooth pain or infection inside the tooth.
Symptoms That Mean You Need an Endodontist
You may be referred to an endodontist if you have:
- Severe tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- Swelling or tenderness around a specific tooth
- Pimple-like bumps on the gums near the tooth (a sign of infection)
- Tooth injury, cracks, or exposed nerves
If the pain seems to be coming from inside the tooth, an endodontist is the right specialist.
What Is a Periodontist?
A periodontist focuses on the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums, jawbone, and connective tissues. Gum disease is one of the most common problems they treat.
What a Periodontist Does
A periodontist is trained to handle:
- Gum disease (periodontitis), from early to advanced stages
- Gum recession, bleeding, or swollen gums
- Gum surgery, including soft tissue grafts
- Scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure
- Dental implants and bone grafting procedures
A periodontist focuses on the health of the gums, bone, and supporting structures around the teeth. You would see a periodontist for gum disease, bleeding gums, or receding gums.
Symptoms That Mean You Need a Periodontist
You may need to visit a periodontist if you notice:
- Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums or longer-looking teeth
- Loose teeth, which may signal bone loss
- Chronic bad breath related to gum infections
- Swollen, tender, or discolored gums
- Need for dental implants or gum surgery
If the problem involves the gums or bone around your teeth, a periodontist is the specialist to choose.
Periodontist vs Endodontist: Key Differences
Here’s a simple way to understand the difference between the two:
| Specialist | Focus Area | Common Treatments | When to See Them |
| Endodontist | Inside the tooth – pulp, nerves, root canals | Root canals, treating infections, repairing tooth injuries | Severe tooth pain, cracked tooth, infection, sensitivity |
| Periodontist | Gums, bone, tissues supporting the teeth | Gum disease treatment, deep cleaning, implants, gum surgery | Bleeding gums, swelling, recession, loose teeth |
In short:
- If the pain is coming from inside the tooth, you likely need an endodontist.
- If the gums are the issue, a periodontist is your best choice.
If the problem is inside the tooth—like pain originating from the tooth itself—see an endodontist. If the issue involves the gums or supporting structures—like bleeding or swelling—see a periodontist.
How to Decide Which Specialist You Need
Many people experience tooth or gum issues that feel very similar. Pain can even radiate in ways that make it hard to pinpoint the actual cause. Here’s how to make an informed decision:
1. Identify Where the Pain Is Coming From
- Deep, sharp tooth pain often indicates a nerve issue → Endodontist
- Tender, swollen, or bleeding gums point to gum disease → Periodontist
2. Consider Your Symptoms
- Sensitivity to heat or cold, cracks, and abscesses → Endodontist
- Receding gums, loose teeth, or chronic bleeding → Periodontist
3. Think About the Treatment You Need
- Root canal? Endodontist
- Deep cleaning, gum graft, or implant? Periodontist
4. Ask Your General Dentist
When in doubt, your regular dentist can examine your mouth and refer you to the right specialist. This is often the easiest route, especially if symptoms overlap.
Why Seeing the Right Specialist Matters
Visiting the correct specialist ensures:
- Faster and more accurate diagnosis
- Targeted treatment from a trained expert
- Lower risk of complications
- Better long-term oral health
Endodontists and periodontists undergo years of additional training beyond dental school, so choosing the right one can significantly improve your treatment outcome.
FAQs About Periodontists vs Endodontists
1. Which specialist handles root canals?
An endodontist performs root canals and treats infections inside the tooth.
2. Do periodontists treat gum disease?
Yes. A periodontist specializes in diagnosing and treating gum disease, including advanced cases.
3. Who should I see for dental implants?
A periodontist typically places dental implants and performs bone or gum grafting if needed.
4. What if I’m not sure where the pain is coming from?
Visit your general dentist first. They can identify the cause and refer you to the correct specialist.
5. Can tooth pain come from the gums?
Yes, gum infections can sometimes cause tooth discomfort, which is why a professional exam is important.
6. Are endodontists and periodontists more expensive?
Specialists may have higher fees due to advanced training, but the accuracy and success rates often make it worthwhile.
7. Can both specialists help save my teeth?
Absolutely.
- Endodontists save teeth by treating infections and preserving roots.
- Periodontists save teeth by treating gum disease and stabilizing bone and tissues.
If you’re experiencing tooth or gum issues, understanding the difference between a periodontist and an endodontist can help you make the right decision for your oral health. Choosing the correct specialist ensures proper treatment, faster relief, and a healthier smile for the long term. To schedule your consultation, contact Midtown Endodontics P.C. at 212-721-2266 today.