WHAT IS A ROOT CANAL (endodontics)? Back in the day, when the nerve of a tooth got damaged or infected, the only treatment was to extract the tooth. However, by performing a root canal procedure, the damaged / infected pulp is removed. By not removing the infected tooth, it prevents your other teeth from drifting out of line and causing jaw problems. How is a root canal performed? First, your tooth will be isolated by a rubber dam. After being numbed, an opening extending down into the pulp is made in the crown of the tooth. The pulp is removed and the root canal cleaned and shaped to hold the filling. At this point, the canal may either be permanently filled and sealed, or filled with a medication to reduce infection. The tooth may be placed with a temporary filling or left open to drain. Please ask a team member if you would like more information. Contact us today! Don't forget to check other dental services we offer.