What’s the difference between an Endodontist and a Dentist?

Even though all endodontists are also dentists, only about 3% of dentists are also endodontists. Endodontists are specialists, because they have gone to school for two or more years after dental school. Their extra training focuses on figuring out why a tooth hurts, treating root canals, and doing other things that have to do with the inside of the tooth. With endodontic treatment, a tooth that is sick can often be saved. Our offices also have specialized technology and equipment to properly diagnose and treat the tooth, most of the time in one visit.

Do I need a referral?

You do not need a referral to see a root canal specialist. However, most patients are referred by their general dentist to our office. We can recommend a trusted general dentist to you if needed.

Am I a candidate for a root canal?

You could be a candidate for a root canal if decay or damage has allowed bacteria to infect the pulp inside your tooth. A root canal could also be the right treatment for you if you prefer to preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible instead of extracting both the healthy and diseased portions of your tooth. For more information about root canals and whether they are right for you, schedule a consultation at your earliest convenience.

What should I expect during my root canal treatment?

If you undergo a root canal, the first step in your procedure will involve a local anesthetic. Once your tooth root is numb, the diseased portion of your tooth pulp will be removed and potentially treated for bacterial infection. The tooth will then be sealed and filled before being restored with a crown.

What type of post-treatment care is required after a root canal?

It is normal for teeth to become inflamed after a root canal, potentially causing sensitivity for the first several days following treatment. However, normal brushing and flossing habits can be resumed immediately after treatment and restoration is complete. Treated patients must return to their general dentist within 2-4 weeks for a permanent crown.

Do I still need a root canal if the pain has gone away? What happens if I delay the root canal?

If you have been prescribed a root canal, you still need to get treatment even if the pain seems to have gone away. It is common for dental pain to come and go. But that does not mean the tooth can go untreated. Delaying the process can cause further dental problems.

My doctor recommended that I see a specific doctor. Will he/she be upset if I get treatment from another doctor? 

We value our referrals and will make every effort to schedule you with the requested endodontist. If the endodontist is unavailable, we can schedule you with another one of our trusted endodontists. Your general dentist and our priority are the same: to get you treated with excellence and out of pain comfortably. 

Does anything change by using another endodontist for treatment?

All of our doctors are highly trained and certified to specialize in endodontic treatment. Each endodontist in our practice will give you the special care and attention you need to ensure you have a good experience and a successful outcome. 

What should I do if I have pain after my treatment?

If you have pain after your treatment, please follow the post-op instructions provided to you after your visit or call us. If you need medical attention, please call 911.

What is the cancellation policy?

We understand things come up unexpectedly. We ask that you provide a four-hour notice when canceling your appointment. If a four-hour notice is not provided, there is a fifty-dollar cancellation/no-show fee. 

I do not have insurance, but I am interested in your financing options. Please explain my options.

Getting our patients the treatment they need is our priority. We understand financial obligations can delay this process, and we want to help in any way we can. Please give us a call, and we can help you determine the best financial option for you.

I have Medicaid insurance. Which location(s) can I be treated at?

We have two locations in network with Maryland Healthy Smiles "Medicaid." RCT Endodontics Laurel and RCT Endodontics North Potomac.

Is there an age restriction for Medicaid insurance?

Patients with Medicaid insurance between the ages of 13 and 60 years old can be treated at our Laurel and North Potomac office locations.

Why am I charged a $50 deposit for a Saturday appointment? Is this in addition to my co-insurance fees?

Saturday appointments are in high demand. We are limited on availability during these hours and require a deposit fee to ensure you are committed to your appointment time. The $50 deposit is nonrefundable and will be applied to the cost of your visit or refunded if there is no balance due after treatment. 

When will I know how much my estimated out-of-pocket costs will be? 

Our expert billing specialist will verify your insurance and get a breakdown of your dental benefits. Someone from our team will contact you two days before your scheduled appointment to review your estimated cost. To ensure a quick response, please provide the most accurate insurance information to the scheduling coordinator at the time of scheduling.