Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is the process of removing infected, injured or dead pulp from your tooth. When bacteria (germs) enter your tooth through deep cavities, cracks or flawed fillings, your tooth can become abscessed.
An abscessed tooth is a tooth with an infection in the pulp. If pulp becomes infected, it needs to be removed in order to save your tooth, relieve pain and swelling. If left untreated, the tooth may have to be removed and replaced with a bridge or implant. After a root canal treatment, your tooth has to be restored (fixed) with a crown or filling to look, feel and function like a natural tooth.