Why is a root canal necessary?

When the interior of your tooth, specifically the canal, is disturbed by bacteria or trauma, the nerve starts to become inflamed or degenerates.  The inflammation of the nerve can lead to severe hot/cold sensitivity and pain upon pressure.  Degeneration of the nerve can lead to pain upon pressure or chewing.  Sometimes discomfort from either inflamed or degeneration of the nerve can be unprovoked.  Root canal therapy will help eliminate the discomfort by removing the nerve and cleaning out the bacteria that infiltrated the canal.  It is of utmost importance to properly restore the tooth in a timely manner.