A root canal is given when the tooth’s nerve becomes infected or the pulp of the tooth becomes damaged. During the procedure, the nerve, pulp, and any decay are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned, filled with dental materials that help restore the tooth, and then sealed. A root canal will save a tooth that would otherwise have to be removed.

A root canal procedure is usually done in one or more appointments. If have a root canal treatment, you should then have a crown placed on the tooth, which will help restore the tooth to its original function.