If you have a crack in your tooth that has extended into the pulp, the tooth can be treated with a root canal. Some time after the root canal, a crown can be placed to protect the crack from spreading. Until then, you will be given a temporary crown to wear.

Getting a root canal involves clearing out the decayed tooth matter and removing the nerve. This procedure has a bad reputation for being painful. But if it’s done right, you should feel no pain or only minor discomfort.

If you have a toothache, sensitivity, or swelling, you may need a root canal. Left untreated, infection can spread, causing abscess, bone loss, and other serious problems.