The root canal is actually the space within the tooth which contains the soft tissue, known as the pulp, which is composed of nerves, blood vessels, and fibrous tissue. The pulp tissue is necessary for the tooth's development and eruption, but once the tooth is mature, the tooth can survive without the pulp. Endodontic treatment or root canal treatment involves removal of the diseased pulp tissue and cleansing and filling of the root canal space. The tooth is then restored by the general dentist with a crown or other restoration and can resume normal function.
Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected.
There can be many causes of disease in the pulp such as deep decay, trauma to the tooth, repeated dental procedures on a tooth, or a crack or fracture of a tooth. If pulp inflammation or infection is not treated, it will cause pain and formation of an abscess. The most common signs of pulp disease are spontaneous pain, pain to biting pressure, and prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold. There may also be swelling of the gum tissue or jawbone and tenderness of the gums. Sometimes, especially with traumatic injuries, the tooth may be discolored.