Root canal treatment is a procedure used to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. When decay has gone through the outer layers of the tooth to reach the inner pulp, it can cause pain, swelling, and even abscesses. During a root canal treatment, the dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans the root canals, and seals the tooth to prevent further infection. The tooth is then restored with a crown or filling. This enables you to preserve your natural teeth and avoid an extraction. Saving the natural tooth with a root canal treatment has many advantages: efficient chewing, normal biting force and sensation, protecting your other teeth from wear and strain, and a natural appearance.