Root canal treatment is required when nerve of the tooth roots is inflamed and infected. Usually the cause of infection results from deep decay, a crack or chip, or from repeated dental procedures. Treatment consists of three one hour appointments to carefully remove the infected tissue, clean the canals, then fill and seal the tooth. Most commonly the tooth is sealed with a filling or a crown to provide protection for the roots. Infected root canals left untreated may result in an abscess forming which may lead to the entire tooth becoming infected.