1. University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA • Private
In-State Tuition
$56,225
Enrollment
19,548
An endodontist is a dental specialist whose primary role is to save and rescue teeth. If you have a cracked tooth, need a root canal, or have suffered trauma to your dentition, you'll be seen by an endodontist rather than a regular dentist. Endodontists are dental professionals who specialize in helping patients keep their teeth through endodontic procedures, and although all dentists are trained in the diagnosis and endodontic therapy, some teeth can be difficult to diagnose and treat, and that's where the endodontist comes in.
An endodontist specializes in diagnosing and treating oral pain that deals with the pulp (interior of teeth) and the gums, and performs oral surgeries, complex tooth extractions, and root canals. An endodontist typically works a normal workweek in a clinical setting, but hours may vary, and many own their practices. These health professionals possess strong interpersonal and communication skills to work well with support staff and patients, and if they own their practices, are adept at financial management, budgeting, staffing, and marketing.
Also, an endodontist is skilled in a variety of surgical techniques and is skilled at using X-rays, microscopes, and tooth re-building technology. As with most health professionals, endodontists have extensive education and training, and in addition to an undergraduate degree in biology or a related subject, they also undergo four years of dental education, an endodontic program, or a residency, and must be licensed in the state in which they practice. However, the education and training pay off in providing critical services to patients, and most endodontists make over $190,000 a year, and job growth in the US is projected at 3% by 2029.
