Root canal treatment is needed when the blood or nerve supply of the tooth (known as the pulp) is infected through decay or injury.

If the pulp becomes infected, the infection may spread through the root canal system of the tooth.

This may eventually lead to an abscess. If root canal treatment is not carried out, the infection will spread and the tooth may need to be taken out.

The aim of the treatment is to remove all infection from the root canal. The root is then cleaned and filled to prevent any further infection. Root canal treatment is a skilled and time-consuming procedure. Most courses of treatment will involve two or more visits to your dentist. ry.

• American Dental Association
• Healthfinder.gov
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research