Root canal therapy is a treatment option that removes decay or infection from inside an affected tooth. The most common reasons for a tooth becoming compromised and requiring root canal treatment is due to untreated cracks or fractures, deep cavities, or injuries to the tooth. In order to save the tooth from extraction, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), bacteria, nerves and any decay are removed. The area is cleaned and disinfected, and the resulting space is filled with special medicated dental materials which restores the tooth to its full function. An injured tooth that is left untreated can lead to a dental abscess, extreme pain, or possible tooth loss.