Best root canal treatment in Adyar, Chennai A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage inside a tooth, specifically in the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels). Instead of removing the whole tooth, the dentist cleans out the infected pulp, disinfects the space, and seals Steps of the Procedure Examination & X-ray: To see the shape of the root canals and detect infection. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area. Pulpectomy: Opening the tooth and removing the infected pulp. Cleaning & Shaping: Root canals are cleaned, disinfected, and shaped. Filling & Sealing: Canals are filled with a biocompatible material (usually gutta-percha). Crowning (optional but common): A crown is placed on the tooth for strength and protection.