A non-surgical root canal is preferred when possible. It is a less invasive treatment and often corrects the problem, removing infection and saving the tooth. However, if the infection is severe or the root canals are difficult to clean thoroughly, a surgical root canal may be needed.nnDuring a non-surgical root canal, the dentist uses a small drill to reach the infected pulp and extract it. The empty canal is then cleaned and disinfected using sodium hypochlorite. Once the area is free of infection, gutta-percha is used to fill the channel, and a crown or cap is placed over the opening to seal the tooth closed.nnRoot canal surgery, or apicoectomy, may be needed if the infection is widespread or the dentist cannot find the source of the pain or the fracture point. A root canal specialist performs surgery by making an incision in the gum line to access the tooth’s root from the side. From here, the dentist can clearly see the source of the infection and more easily extract the damaged pulp. The tip of the tooth root is also removed to prevent reinfection. A surgical root canal may be recommended if the infection is deep in the base of the tooth’s root or has spread to the surrounding bone.