Root canal therapy is usually preformed to alleviate a painful toothache. The pain is the result of pressure caused by a bacterial infection and the body increasing fluids to the area to combat the infection. In this case a root canal treatment is necessary. A small hole is made at the top of the tooth to drain out the infection and remove nerves and blood vessels in the tooth pulp chamber. A rubber filling material is then placed in the canals. A root canal allows you to keep your tooth, maintain the bone, and have your natural chewing force.