A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected.

Infection or inflammation can be caused by:

• breakdown of a filling or crown
• a deep cavity
• trauma
• gum disease
• crack or chip to a tooth
• extreme wear
• extensive dental work to the tooth

During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form causing severe pain.