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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.
Current as of: November 14, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine & Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Steven K. Patterson BS, DDS, MPH - Dentistry & Arden Christen DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry
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