What is a root canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure that treats infections in the tooth's pulp, the innermost layer of the tooth. The procedure involves removing infected pulp and nerve tissue, cleaning the inside of the root canal, and filling and sealing the space. The goal of a root canal is to save a tooth that might otherwise need to be removed.

You might need a root canal if you have:

  • A deep cavity
  • A cracked or damaged tooth
  • Tooth pain that doesn't go away
  • Pressure hurts
  • Swollen gums
  • Pimple (fistula) on your gums from an abscess
  • Swollen jaw
  • Discolored tooth
  • Loose tooth

Why did Netflix make a documentary stating that root canals are bad? I don't know. But they have retracted their documentary. Central Ohio Endodontics also commented on this.