A root canal is the space within the root of a tooth that harbors the pulp, or nerve. Root canal therapy is a procedure done to treat an infected tooth, due to trauma, decay or periodontal disease, in an effort to save the tooth. The procedure consists of removing the nerve inside the tooth and cleaning out the causative agents of inflammation, then placing a filling type material down into each canal space. Typically a crown is needed afterwards to restore the tooth to proper form and function.
