Does a regular dentist DDS need a special license to perform a root canal?

I had a root canal done by a dentist (which I believe I really didn't need because of very min bone lost). Anyhow, now I have to go to a Endodontics to have it look at and pay over $800.00 out of pocket cost because my insurance already paid once for the root canal on that tooth. I am also getting two different stories.. The Endo tells me the dentist should never perform root canal and the dentist tells me I could if I needed to. Someone isn't telling me the truth and I am in pain dealing with it.

Does a regular dentist DDS need a special license to perform a root canal?
Any licensed dentist can perform root canal surgery if he or she chooses. Most choose not to because it is tedious and special gear is needed to do them quickly. Sounds like the dentist and the endodontist do not have a good working relationship. Most endodontists would never say that about a General Practitioner, even if the GP totally screwed up the procedure. Do the GP a favor let him know what the Specialist said, pony up the money, ask the GP if they would consider giving you, or the Insurance company the money back out of just shear kindness.





good luck
Reply:I have several root canals performed by a regular dentist. Your endo sounds like he/she is full of it. Get in touch with the American Dental Society and get the real story so you will know what the heck is going on.
Reply:Yes dentists learn how to perform a root canal. I do believe if it is a complicated case, they need to refer to a specialist. And that's just the case, maybe you needed a specialist, but that was at the discretion of your dentist...or your request for a second opinion.
Reply:I'm not buying the endo's argument. The DDS's are trained to do root canals in dental school, it's not a complex procedure. They're fully trained and capable. What are they supposed to do, just clean teeth? They have dental technicians for that. I think the endo is trying to drum up more business and monopolize its little industry there.
Reply:A regular dentist can do a root canal. My dentist did one for me, but it was an easy one with no complications. If I had medical issues or it was particularly complex, he said he refers those patients to a specialist. It is usually cheaper if the dentist is able to do it.

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