Dental pulp, found in the centre of each tooth contains a nerve that extends from the tooth’s root bringing vital nutrients to the tooth. If a tooth’s pulp is injured, damaged, or infected, the nerve within the pulp will die.
To salvage the tooth endodontic treatment (root canal) is performed. In many cases, root canal therapy (removal of the nerve tissue in the tooth) can save damaged teeth by preserving the tooth in the mouth.
After the root canal is successfully completed, restoring the tooth with a crown is usually highly recommended. Crowning the tooth after a root canal will preserve the tooth’s structure and provide strength for chewing.