Does the mere mention of a "root canal" make you wince? You aren't alone. For decades, pop culture and outdated stories have painted this tooth-saving procedure as something to fear. But at Espire Dental in La Mesa, CA, we believe knowledge is the best antidote to anxiety. The reality of modern endodontics is vastly different from the scary stories you might have heard.
Led by Dr. Jeff Gray—one of the country’s premier dental minds with over 35 years of experience—and Dr. Greg Hurtado, our team is here to set the record straight. Let’s debunk the most common myths so you can get the relief you need without the unnecessary worry.
Myth #1: Root Canals Are Extremely Painful
This is the biggest myth of all, and it’s completely outdated. Decades ago, before modern anesthetics and technology, dental work could be uncomfortable. Today, however, a root canal is no more painful than getting a routine filling.
The pain people associate with root canals actually comes from the infection before the procedure, not the treatment itself. A root canal relieves that pain. At Espire Dental, we use advanced numbing techniques to ensure you don’t feel a thing. Our goal is to get you out of pain, not cause it.
Myth #2: It’s Better to Just Pull the Tooth
Some patients believe extraction is the easier, cheaper route. While pulling a tooth might seem like a quick fix, it often leads to more complex (and expensive) problems down the road. When you lose a tooth, your jawbone can deteriorate, and surrounding teeth may shift out of place, affecting your bite and smile.
Dr. Jeff Gray and Dr. Greg Hurtado always advocate for saving your natural tooth whenever possible. Nothing looks, feels, or functions quite like your natural teeth. A root canal allows you to keep your smile intact and avoid costly replacements like bridges or implants later on.
Myth #3: The Procedure Takes Forever
We know you have a busy life in the greater San Diego area. Another common misconception is that a root canal requires multiple long, grueling appointments. While complex cases might need two visits, many root canals can be completed in a single appointment.
Thanks to modern digital imaging and precision instruments, the process is streamlined and efficient. We respect your time and work hard to get you back to your daily routine in La Mesa or El Cajon as quickly as possible.
Experience Stress-Free Dentistry in La Mesa
If fear has kept you from treating a toothache, our approach at Espire Dental will change your mind. We don't just treat teeth; we treat people. Our practice offers a uniquely comfortable environment with relaxing amenities designed to put you at ease the moment you walk through our doors.
For patients with higher anxiety, we offer sedation dentistry options. Whether you need a little help relaxing or want to sleep through the procedure, we can tailor the experience to your needs.
Don't let myths compromise your oral health. If you are experiencing tooth pain, trust the expertise of Dr. Jeff Gray and Dr. Greg Hurtado. We are proud to serve La Mesa, El Cajon, and the San Diego community with compassionate, world-class care.
