When the nerves of teeth are severely damaged because of decay or injury, they can be saved and restored by a process called endodontic treatment (root canal). It is a process where the damaged, infected nerve tissue is removed and the space, called a canal, is sterilized and sealed with an inert material called Gutta Percha. Gutta Percha is a natural rubber compound that is cemented into the canal space after that space has been sterilized. The tooth is now similar to a fingernail, attached to healthy bone but with no nerve endings. The remaining tooth root can now be used to support a replacement crown. These root canalled teeth will remain healthy and stable for many years with normal oral health care.