Can You Breathe Through Your Mouth During a Root Canal?
By Dr. Eastwood – Summerbrook Dental & Implants, Fort Worth, TX
A question I often hear from patients is, “Can you breathe through your mouth during a root canal?” The answer depends on how the treatment is done, but the good news is—you will always be able to breathe normally.
During most root canal procedures, we use a dental dam, which is a thin sheet that covers your mouth except for the tooth we are working on. The dental dam helps keep the tooth clean, dry, and free from bacteria while also preventing you from swallowing any debris. While it does cover much of your mouth, it does not block your airway.
In most cases, you’ll breathe through your nose while the dental dam is in place. If you’re used to breathing mostly through your mouth, it may feel a little different at first. Don’t worry—if you have allergies, sinus issues, or a stuffy nose, let us know ahead of time. We can make adjustments, give you breaks, or work without the dental dam in certain situations.
At Summerbrook Dental & Implants, patient comfort is our top priority. Before starting, I explain the process so you know exactly what to expect. We also give you a way to signal if you need to stop at any time. Many patients find that after a few minutes, they don’t even notice the dental dam—it simply makes the procedure smoother and faster.
Breathing comfortably during a root canal is important, and we take every step to make sure you feel relaxed and safe. If you have concerns about mouth or nose breathing during your treatment, we will talk through the options and find what works best for you.
We are a no-judgment office, and our goal is to help you get the care you need without fear or discomfort.