root canal

noun

Dentistry.

1. Also called pulp canal. the root portion of the pulp cavity.

2. Informal.,  root canal therapy.

root canal

noun

1. the passage in the root of a tooth through which its nerves and blood vessels enter the pulp cavity

Word History and Origins

Origin of root canal¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

"We're getting to a point where it's no longer an option to treat with fillings or root canal."

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I was like: “Do I need a root canal? Can you take a tooth out? Something’s wrong.”

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Both ultimately understood that the other’s priorities deserved respect, be it Anna’s rock band practice or Tess’ root canal.

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On the second floor, volunteer dentists pull rotten teeth and perform root canals, cost-free.

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They added that the 22-year-old man extracted teeth, performed complex root canals and applied anaesthesia, drawing on information he had obtained online.

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