Endodontics is the dental specialty concerned with the treatment of dental pulp. Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation can arise in a variety of cases: deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.
Signs of pulp damage include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums.
Click on the picture below for a detailed video on root canal surgery.