What is a root canal procedure?

The root canal is a procedure for preserving damaged or dead dental pulp in the root canal of a tooth by removing the diseased pulp and reshaping the root canal. The canal is filled with a rubbery substance called a tooth gel or other material to prevent re-contamination of the teeth. The teeth are then permanently sealed, possibly with posts and/or crowns made of ceramics or metal alloys. This allows the patient to maintain the original teeth.