Endodontist - Career Profile |
Career OverviewAn endodontist is a specialized dentist that works to treat several aspects of tooth and gum disorders including pulpal pathology and other diseases and conditions of the teeth.
The endodontist is also involved in root canal therapy and surgery, both simple and more complicated procedures that are involved in root canals. In addition the endodontist may also work with teeth bleaching, root problems and resections, dental implants, as well as assisting on a treatment team when there has been trauma to the mouth and teeth.
The endodontist is very frequently called in when there is tooth loss or gum conditions that are causing tooth loss or tooth disease.
The endodontist usually works in either a private office or in conjunction with a team of dental professionals. Usually patients are referred to an endodontist from a dental practice rather than coming directly to an endodontist on their own. An endodontist usually works with patients over a long period of time to correct any pulpal conditions or gum disease that is problematic.
The endodontist may work in either private or government sectors, and may also be involved in research activities both in private sectors and in public facilities. The endodontist may be on call for emergency situations with dental trauma if they work in conjunction with a hospital or specialized practice.
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Career RequirementsMost endodontists have a DDS or DMD, Doctor of Dental Surgery or Medicine as well as two or three years of specialized training. Upon completion of the specialization the dentist then has either certification as an endodontist or a Master of Science Degree in Endodontics.
Since this is a specialization there also needs to be an internship or hands-on component of the training that occurs in the two or three year specialization program. Usually this includes the student working in a University run dental clinic and working with emergency treatment cases. There are currently 41 dental schools across the United States that offer the specialization training in endodontics.
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Job OutlookThe job opportunities for endodontists tend to be steady with more demand in larger centers where there are greater numbers of dentists for referrals. Larger hospitals and treatment facilities also require endodontists on call or even on-staff if the facility is large enough.
According to the United States Department of Labor it is anticipated that the need for endodontists will continue to increase at an average rate as current specialists in the field reach retirement age.
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Career TrackMost endodontists start out working for groups of dentists or may even work in public health facilities or government agencies. As the endodontist gains experience and his or her referrals increase they are likely to move into a private practice either by taking over a retiring professionals office or starting up an office of their own.
There are always options for endodontists with experience to return to teaching or research, as well as take on consulting roles for hospitals and dental clinics.
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CompensationEndodontists in private practice tend to earn significantly hire average incomes over those in government positions, although they also have far higher costs associated with running their own practice. An endodontist in private practice with several years experience can anticipate yearly earnings in excess of $180,000, with endodontists with less experience usually averaging $145,000 per year.
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