Sometimes tiny nerve canals within your tooth become infected.  This can be triggered by a variety of causes but most often an untreated cavity is the culprit.  The infection usually causes the pulp inside your tooth to also become infected.  When an infected tooth is diagnosed or there's damage to the pulp, a root canal may be recommended.  We offer the services of a certified endodontist (root canal specialist) in addition to our experienced general dentists in the treatment of your root canal pain.