If the nerve within your tooth becomes infected, successful root canal treatment can keep you from losing the tooth while treating the infection before it causes health complications. Properly performed, a root canal is no more uncomfortable than having a cavity filled, though the procedure is more complex. It is the removal of infected or dead pulp (the inner nerves and blood vessels) from inside the tooth, and the filling and sealing of the resulting space. An infected (abscessed) tooth causes discomfort in the form of swelling and toothache. It can also cause severe health complications, because the bacteria from the infection can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body. One way to treat the infection is to remove the tooth and disinfect the area. However, tooth loss creates a gap between surrounding teeth that often necessitates a dental implant or bridge. It is preferable to save the tooth if possible through root canal (endodontic) treatment. We begin by applying local anesthesia and isolating the area with a rubber dam. Then we drill an opening into the tooth to access the infected pulp, and remove it and clean the area with specialized tools. We fill the root space with a filling material. Finally we must seal the surface of the tooth with a crown to prevent further infection and restore the function and appearance of the tooth and guard against fracture. The root canal treatment is typically performed in one visit, but may take several appointments depending on the circumstance.