Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation in the pulp of a tooth. The pulp is the innermost part of the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, it can cause severe pain and lead to the formation of abscesses or cysts.

During a root canal procedure, the dentist or endodontist removes the infected or inflamed pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and then fills and seals the space with a material called gutta-percha. This process aims to save the tooth from extraction while eliminating the source of infection or inflammation.