Root canal treatments are sometimes necessary when the dental pulp or vascular tissue within a tooth becomes infected by bacteria, usually from decay which has gone too deep and can not be completely removed during a routine filling, or due to trauma to the tooth which damages the blood supply around the end of the root.
In a mature tooth, this tissue is present to alert us to damage or infection but, if necessary, an adult tooth can survive very well without this pulp. This is removed and the space filled with an inert rubber like material.
In some cases, it may be necessary to refer you to a specialist to guarantee an optimal result.