A root canal is needed when the pulp inside a tooth becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, a faulty crown, a crack, chip, or injury to the tooth. It is performed to remove the damaged or infected pulp tissue, clean and disinfect the area, and then fill and seal the tooth to save it from extraction. This treatment helps relieve pain and prevents the infection from spreading to the bone and surrounding tissues. Root canals are generally recommended when the infection or damage is severe enough that a simple filling won't suffice or when an abscess forms around the tooth root. The procedure allows the natural tooth to be preserved, maintaining normal biting force and appearance.