Educational Requirements for an Endodontist
An endodontist is a dentist who focuses on performing root canals. A root canal is the removal of a tooth's nerve and pulp for the purpose of saving the tooth when it is decayed or infected.
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Four-Year Degree
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An aspiring endodontist must first successfully complete an undergraduate program. Common fields of study include biology, chemistry and other areas of science.
Dental School
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After obtaining an undergraduate degree, an endodontist candidate must complete four years of dental school.
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Specialist Training
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After receiving a doctorate from dental school, endodontist candidates next pursue advanced study in endodontics. According to the American Association of Endodontists, there are about 50 such programs across the country
Licensing
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All endodontists must be licensed in order to practice. The license is obtained by passing an examination administered by the state.
Board Certification
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To obtain board certification, endodontists must apply to the American Association of Endodontists. Certification is awarded after an audit of a doctor's patient history and the successful completion of written and oral examinations. Board certification establishes the endodontist's clinical proficiency.
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References
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Herry Lawford
