What is root canal treatment (RCT)?

Root canal treatment is an endodontic procedure used to treat infection or inflammation deep inside a tooth. When the pulp (the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels at the center of a tooth) becomes infected due to decay, cracks, or trauma, it causes pain and can lead to abscess formation. Without treatment, the infection spreads and the tooth must be extracted.

During RCT, a dentist accesses the pulp chamber, removes the infected or inflamed pulp tissue, and then cleans and shapes the root canals. The empty space is then filled with an inert material called gutta-percha, which seals the canal to prevent reinfection. The tooth is typically restored with a crown or filling afterward to protect it and return it to normal function.

RCT stops the pain associated with pulp infection and allows you to keep your natural tooth instead of losing it to extraction. This treatment is often a last effort to preserve a tooth that would otherwise be lost. While root canals have a reputation for being uncomfortable, modern techniques and anesthesia make the procedure manageable, and the relief from tooth pain is immediate. Endodontic treatment success rates are high, making it a reliable solution for infected teeth. After RCT, the tooth remains in your mouth and functions normally, though it becomes more brittle over time and typically needs a crown for long-term protection.