"Root canal" is the term used to describe the natural cavity within the centre of the tooth. The pulp or pulp chamber is the soft area within the root canal. The tooth's nerve and blood supply lies within the root canal. Tooth's nerve is not vitally important to a tooth's health and function after the tooth has emerged through the gums. Its only function is sensory to provide the sensation of hot or cold. The presence or absence of a nerve will not affect the day-to-day functioning of the tooth.
A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected deep enough to reach the pulp chamber, which may cause severe pain or sensitivity. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses (pus discharge) may form.
