Root canal treatment is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth that has become severely decayed or infected. The procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp—the innermost soft tissue of the tooth—which contains nerves and blood vessels.
The process begins with the dentist administering local anesthesia to numb the area. Then, a small opening is made in the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The infected tissue is carefully removed, and the interior of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected. After cleaning, the empty pulp chamber is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, and the tooth is sealed to prevent future infection.
In many cases, a crown is placed on the tooth afterward to restore its strength and function. Root canal treatment can relieve pain, restore the tooth's health, and preserve it for years to come, allowing patients to maintain their natural smile and chewing function.