Endodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases or injuries to the dental pulp. The dental pulp is the nerve, blood vessel and connective tissue which exist inside the tooth and its roots. When teeth erupt during childhood the roots are not yet fully formed, and the purpose of the nerve and blood vessel is to complete that root development. Once root formation is finished and the job of the nerve and blood vessel fulfilled, its only remaining function is to provide thermal sensation to the tooth.



The pulp, like any other nerve and blood vessel, can become injured or diseased. When this occurs the pulp first becomes inflamed and then eventually can die. Cavities, cracks, fillings, injuries (forceful blows) and gum disease can all cause pulpal inflammation. The more the pulp is traumatized in these ways, the more likely it is to die or become diseased. Additionally, when a pulp system is exposed to bacteria from decay, leaky fillings or cracks in the tooth, infection can occur. If left untreated, this infection can spread through the tooth and ultimately out into the surrounding bone causing an abscess. This causes bone and tissue destruction around the tooth which often leads to pain and swelling. Root canal therapy is necessary in order to save the tooth.