A root canal treatment is performed when the soft inner part of a tooth, known as the pulp, is injured or becomes inflamed or infected.

The crown of the tooth — the part you can see above your gums — can remain intact even if the pulp is dead.

Removing injured or infected pulp is the best way to preserve the structure of the tooth.

Common causes of damage to the pulp include:

* Deep decay due to an untreated cavity

* Multiple dental procedures on the same tooth

* A chip or crack in the tooth

* An injury to the tooth

The most common symptoms of damaged pulp include pain and swelling and a sensation of heat in your gums. Your dentist will examine the painful tooth and take X-ray to confirm the diagnosis.

Steps involves local anaesthesia, removal of the gross infection, further cleaning and shaping of the canals and the last stage in the completion of treatment which involves filling the canals with an inert filling material. Final restoration of the treated tooth with a crown or bridge.