Root canal treatment involves removing the nerve/blood vessels from the inside of the tooth root and subsequently sealing the root to prevent further infection. This treatment is necessary if you have an abscess or infection coming from the tooth or severe pain from the tooth which would keep you awake at night.

An abscess is caused when the nerve of the tooth dies. The nerve can die if you have deep decay in the tooth, a deep filling in the tooth or if the tooth has been knocked at some stage. It can also happen where there is significant tooth root exposure or wear of the roots for whatever reason.

A root-filled tooth, (especially a molar) will be weaker than a normal tooth. It is recommended to place a crown on a root-filled molar tooth to prevent the tooth fracturing. If a large fracture happens the tooth may have to be extracted.