Why do I need a root canal and are they painful?

A root canal may be needed when the pulp/nerve of the tooth, which supplies blood and sensation, dies due to infection or trauma.  It is important to remove the infected portion of the tooth before the infection can spread further, and should not be delayed as complications or loss of the tooth could arise.  Discomfort during dental procedures is managed with local anesthetic to numb the area in order to provide care in an efficient and comfortable manner.