Root canal therapy is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection. In order to save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated, dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full function.

Signs and symptoms for possible root canal therapy

• An abscess (or pimple) on the gums.

• Sensitivity to hot and cold.

• Severe toothache pain.

• Sometimes no symptoms are present.

• Swelling and/or tenderness.

Reasons for root canal therapy

• Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth).

• Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip.

• Injury or trauma to the tooth.