Without a doubt, there are terms that we hear and associate with something similar; making it very common for us to confuse them or not know for sure what one or the other refers to.
That is why through these lines we want you to know how to differentiate the orthodontics and endodontics; two specialties that are part of the field of dentistry and that despite being frequently confused, have very specific areas of competence.
Contents
What does each specialty deal with?
From this approach, the first step is to know what each of these disciplines deals with, when and why they are practiced.
What is Endodontics?
First of all, it should be noted that endodontics is a procedure that is carried out when a tooth is affected by a severe cavity that has spread to affect the dental nerve.
Consequently, the patient suffers:
Hypersensitivity to cold or heat in food and drinks.
Severe pain that can be intermittent or continuous.
Color change of the tooth.
Fistulas in the gums.
It is also likely that there are no symptoms, but the tooth is still damaged (known as pulp necrosis); in which case the procedure applies in the same way.
For this reason, endodontics begins with the application of local anesthesia and the enlargement of the hole in the upper part of the tooth that allows access to the nerve for cleaning.
After this, the ducts are obstructed to avoid possible infections and the tooth is reconstructed (which may sometimes require the placement of a crown).
What is orthodontics?
On the other hand, Orthodontics is about the application of a preventive / corrective treatment to attend dental alignment problems that affect the correct position of the teeth and / or maxillofacials that affect the bite.
That is why these procedures are beneficial in cases such as:
Wear due to friction between the teeth.
Aesthetic correction of the smile.
Dental malocclusions.
Therefore, the Orthodontics It is a type of therapy that is in great demand and that also uses multiple types of devices to fulfill its function. In this sense, it has various models, types and functionalities fully adaptable to every need.
Is there a meeting point between orthodontics and endodontics?
As it is about different disciplines with very precise ends and particular methods; Within the field of dentistry, there may be times when different treatments converge for the benefit of the patient.
Obviously, each of them has its own limitations and special cares; but even so they support each other as a whole to provide comprehensive solutions.
For this reason, there is no inconvenience to applying an orthodontic treatment to a patient who has previously required a root canal; however, it is important to keep a few considerations in mind:
Inform the specialist about the previous endodontic treatment.
Indicates how long it has been since the restore was performed.
The orthodontist will evaluate that the root canal has produced satisfactory results before applying any treatment.
Following a specialist evaluation, the piece may need to be removed (extraction) if it is determined that it cannot be successfully restored.
It is also likely that a decision will be made to repeat the endodontics in search of a better solution for the patient; in which case the orthodontic treatment should wait a few months to ensure the correct evolution of the restoration.
Closing remarks
Finally, it must be remembered that to achieve good oral health, it is not enough just to apply a good cleaning routine (which is obviously a very important basic aspect).
In fact, the regular visit to the specialist's office will allow you to know any problem in time to take preventive and / or corrective actions at the right time; supporting you in any of the techniques that modern dentistry has.
That is why it is not only important to know how to differentiate orthodontics and endodontics, but also by having the guidance of a specialist who knows your case, you will be able to establish a prioritized care schedule for each of your dental needs.
