This dental procedure is designed to remove exposed or infected nerve tissue from the root of the tooth. Up until the advent of this procedure, the only other treatment for a severe toothache was an extraction. 

A root canal is the extraction of the nerve from the tooth roots. This procedure removes the sensitive portion of the tooth, effectively killing the tooth. However; since the tooth is made of a hard substance, it can remain in the mouth and be used as a foundation for a crown, often serving alongside other teeth for many more years. 

This procedure is often done to remove pain, resolve an abscess or infection. If a tooth needs a root canal, but is not treated, the pain may subside temporarily, but often returns with a vengeance, usually accompanied by a swelling and severe pain. At that point a root canal may no longer be an option, forcing the patient to consider an extraction. This can also occur if antibiotics are used to reduce the infection but not followed up by a root canal. With each subsequent infection, the antibiotics become less effective.  

Root canals need to be followed up with crowns. Once the nerve is removed, the tooth superstructure becomes dry and susceptible to fracture. In many instances root canalled teeth can fracture through the roots, necessitating an extraction. To help support a crown, a Post and Core Buildup are used as a foundation. This helps reduce the pressure on the tooth structure and prolongs the life of the tooth and crown.