Information on Root Canals
If the pulp (nerve) within a tooth becomes infected, the tooth will either need to be extracted or be treated with a root canal (endodontic) treatment. An infected (abscessed) tooth causes discomfort in the form of swelling and toothache. It can also cause severe health complications, because the bacteria from the infection can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body. A root canal should be no more uncomfortable than having a cavity filled, though the procedure is more complex. A root canal is the removal of infected or dead pulp (the inner nerves and blood vessels) from inside a tooth, and the subsequent filling and sealing of the resulting space.