Also known as root canal treatment, this is undertaken to remove diseased pulp and preserve a tooth.

Root canal treatment (endodontics) is required when the blood or nerve supply of the tooth (the pulp) is infected through decay or injury. If left untreated, a painful infection or abscess can form and the tooth may need to be removed.

During root canal treatment, your dentist aims to save the tooth by thoroughly cleaning the root canal and then sealing it off to protect it. This process can take place over one or more visits. Later the tooth may need a crown to offer more strength and support.

If you don’t have a root filling, the alternative is usually to have the tooth extracted, because once the pulp is diseased, it cannot heal and it is not wise to leave an infected tooth in the mouth.