Which dental specialty focuses on the tooth pulp and root canal systems?

• A. Orthodontics
• B. Endodontics
• C. Periodontics
• D. Prosthodontics

Answer: (B)

Endodontics focuses on the inside of the tooth—the pulp and root canal systems. This specialty diagnoses and treats diseases and injuries affecting the dental pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth) and the surrounding root canal space. Procedures like root canal therapy, pulp debridement, and retreatments are typical endodontic treatments, all aimed at saving a tooth by removing infection and sealing the canal to protect the tooth’s structure.

Orthodontics deals with aligning teeth and correcting bites, periodontics focuses on the gums and supporting bone, and prosthodontics handles replacement restorations like crowns, bridges, and dentures. The pulp and root canal system is specifically the domain of endodontics, making it the best fit for the described focus.