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Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment (also called a root canal) is a dental procedure done to remove the infected core (pulp) of a tooth. This helps relieve toothache, stop infection, and promote healing.

When the pulp is healthy, it feeds the tooth and helps fight infection. When the pulp becomes damaged because of a deep cavity or fracture, infection may develop. The infection can cause pain and lead to the development of an abscess.

Last Revised: March 3, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & Steven K. Patterson, BS, DDS, MPH - Dentistry

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