A root canal procedure is often misunderstood and mistakenly associated with pain. However, the purpose of a root canal is to relieve dental pain and not to cause it. A root canal procedure may be necessary when bacteria from deep cavities enter the nerve chamber of the tooth or may also be due to trauma. A root canal procedure is relatively painless as anesthetic will be given to control the pain and medications can be prescribed before and after the procedure to reduce any potential discomfort.