When the pulp and nerves of a tooth have become severely infected or damaged, root canal treatment is often the recommended method to help preserve the tooth. Without root canal treatment, the tooth will most likely die and need to be extracted. Root canal treatment is a type of endodontic therapy that removes infected, damaged and injured tissues within the tooth. Root canal treatment also involves cleaning the tooth and filling it with a medicated material to renew the health of the tooth. Once the treatment is completed, our dentist will cap the tooth with the appropriate dental restoration, usually a dental crown, to restore its original structure and appearance. A root canal usually can be completed in one or two appointments, so you can get back to a healthy smile quickly!