Endodontics (root canal treatment) serves to preserve teeth when the corresponding dental nerves become infected or die. Infection can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and fractures, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of the infection may present as pain and/or swelling around a tooth. Various anesthetic methods can ensure that all steps in this treatment can be carried out completely pain-free. Following successful endodontic treatment, it is important to properly restore the tooth to prevent root canal failure or tooth fracture.