Endodontics is the branch of science that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of infections that have progressed to the dental pulp. The dental pulp is the bundle of connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves that nourish the tooth. Endodontic treatment, also known as root canal treatment, involves removing the pulp and draining the infection. What Happens in Pulp Disease? The pulp dies when it becomes damaged, diseased, and unable to heal itself. Pulp death most commonly occurs due to a fractured tooth or a deep cavity. In both cases, bacteria reach the pulp and cause an infection. If this infection is left untreated, pus accumulates at the root tips and in the jawbone, forming pus-filled pockets called abscesses. These abscesses can progress and destroy the bone tissue surrounding the tooth. How is Root Canal Treatment Performed? Root canal treatment can take one to multiple sessions, depending on the severity of the disease. When treatment begins, anesthesia is administered if necessary (the tooth's nerves are still alive). Then, the decay in the visible area of the tooth is carefully cleaned, and the canals are accessed. The diseased pulp is removed, reaching all the way to the root apex. The root canal length is determined using a root apex locator. The root canals are enlarged, shaped, and irrigated with special disinfectant solutions to remove any microbes. Finally, the root canals are firmly filled with root canal filling materials. The upper restoration is placed on the tooth. The treatment is completed with a final X-ray. Post-Root Canal Treatment: Pain may occur for a few days after the root canal treatment. Additionally, pressure on the tooth may cause pain for up to a week. This soothes the gums and reduces gum sensitivity.