A root canal is a procedure used to save a tooth that is infected. If you have severe pain that keeps you up during the night, there is a good chance a root canal may be needed. Modern root canal treatment is nothing like it used to be. It's very similar to a routine filling and can usually be completed in one visit. Getting a root canal is relatively painless and you will be back to a pain free life in no time. There are many advantages to a root canal, including: keeping your natural tooth, effective chewing, natural feel and appearance, and it protects other teeth from shifting.