endodontist

American  

[en-doh-don-tist] / ˌɛn doʊˈdɒn tɪst /

Also endodontologist

noun

1. a specialist in endodontics.

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Etymology

Origin of endodontist

First recorded in 1945–50; endodont(ics) + -ist

Explanation

A dentist who specializes in the insides of teeth is an endodontist. If you need a procedure called a root canal to save a damaged or infected tooth, you'll probably need to see an endodontist. The word endodontist comes from the Greek roots endo, "inside," and odont, "tooth." This type of dental specialist diagnoses and treats problems with the dental pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The most common procedure an endodontist performs is a root canal, during which the doctor removes infected pulp. A successful root canal can save a tooth that the patient would likely otherwise lose.