Why you may need a root canal

Teeth have a soft core called dental pulp. The pulp extends from the crown, which is the part of the tooth you can see, to the tip of the tooth's root in the jawbone. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue.

When a tooth is cracked or chipped or has a deep cavity, bacteria can enter the pulp. Injury to the tooth also can cause pulp damage and inflammation. If not treated, bacteria and decaying material can cause a serious infection or a collection of pus called an abscess. This can lead to pulp death, bone loss and loss of the tooth itself. Symptoms may include swelling around your face and neck, a hole in your tooth, toothache or tooth pain, gum swelling, and being sensitive to hot or cold drinks or food.