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Dentures

Missing teeth can make daily tasks like eating and speaking a challenge, even more so when you've lost an entire arch. 

If you're looking to fill the gaps from multiple missing teeth and show a smile you're proud of, dentures may be the right option for you. 

Learn more about how Dr. Andrew Lunn and his dental team in Chattanooga, TN, can help.

A Life-Changing Solution

Dentures are custom-made prosthetics used to replace a full arch of missing or extracted teeth. Dentures fill the gaps to provide a renewed quality of life and functionality. Here at Chattanooga Family Dentistry, we are happy to help make our patients' day-to-day lives a little easier.

Improved Oral Health

Missing teeth can affect surrounding teeth as well, causing them to shift over time or become more susceptible to dental decay. If you have teeth remaining in your arch, dentures can provide them with support and ensure they can function optimally. Dentures anchored with implants can further support your health by slowing jawbone deterioration. 

Maintained Facial Structure 

Missing teeth can cause muscles to sag, giving the face a sunken appearance. Dentures help maintain facial structure and can rejuvenate your appearance.

Restored Chewing Ability

Many patients with missing teeth have trouble chewing and biting. As a result, they avoid certain foods and risk being nutrient deficient. Dentures allow you to enjoy a well-balanced, healthy diet.

Improved Speech

Missing teeth can make it difficult to pronounce words and hold a conversation. Dentures allow you to speak confidently and enunciate words that may have once felt impossible.

Boosted Confidence

Designed to look like natural teeth, dentures can enhance your appearance and self-esteem. Say goodbye to the days of covering your mouth, feeling self-conscious, and smiling with your mouth closed.

Don't Be Embarrassed About Tooth Loss... We Are Here To Help

We find many people suffering from tooth loss put off restorative treatment due to embarrassment. But tooth loss is nothing to be ashamed of. It is a common condition that affects millions of adults every year. Rest assured that our office is a judgment-free zone where you can get the help you need.

Another obstacle many patients have is a belief that their smile is "beyond repair." However, this is never the case. Over the last 25 years in practice, Dr. Lunn has treated all kinds of oral health problems including the most severe stages of tooth loss. Using the most advanced techniques in restorative dentistry, we can find a solution no matter what your needs.  Don't let these concerns hold you back. You can improve your oral health and quality of life with our custom state-of-the-art dental care. Request a consultation with the dentist today. You can reach our office in Chattanooga, TN, online, or by calling:

Chattanooga Family Dentistry office

"Great team, great dentist"

1

Kristin Leslie

2020

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Super friendly. I just started going to this dentist & I love it! Highly recommend!!

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1

Lisa Marsh

2020

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The staff at Chattanooga Family Dental are great. I always have major anxiety going. Winston helps calm me down. Great team great dentist.

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We Use Top Tech for Your Oral Health 

Our digital X-rays take precise images of your teeth and gums so your dentures can be personalized to your unique needs. The X-rays will help Dr. Lunn determine if you have enough jawbone density to support implants. The high-resolution photos also make it easy to identify any anomalies in your teeth or gums.  

Our Chattanooga dental practice partners with quality dental labs so your dentures both look natural and function smoothly.  

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What Are My Options?

Here at Chattanooga Family Dentistry, we offer three kinds of dentures, all designed to look and function like natural teeth. Our dental team will help decide which type of denture is best suited for you. We believe in providing patient education to allow you to make the best decision for yourself.
Traditional full dentures

Full Dentures

Full dentures are used to replace all of your upper or lower teeth. If necessary, your dentist can perform tooth extractions to completely remove damaged teeth and place a set of temporary dentures until your gums have healed. Once healing has been completed, you're ready for customized dentures. 

Partial Denture

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are used when a patient is missing several teeth on the upper or lower dental arch. The partial denture is secured to the remaining natural teeth with a metal framework, increasing the stability of the prosthetic.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-Supported Dentures

Dental implants fuse directly to the jawbone to provide your restorations with unbeatable stability. Implant-supported dentures are much less likely to move or shift than full or partial dentures, eliminating the possibility of them falling out and minimizing the need for adjustments in the future. 

Upgrading Your Dentures  with Dental Implants

While supporting dentures with dental implants costs more than using a traditional restoration alone, this option can provide lifelong benefits and stability:

Jawbone Retention

Implants are the only restorative treatment that repairs the underlying tooth roots, preventing the bone recession that develops with missing teeth. Furthermore, you avoid frequent trips to adjust your traditional denture as your face will not change shape. 

Longevity

Patients often receive dental implants and never have to worry about them again. Implants can last for 40 years or longer with proper placement and regular care, making them a reliable option that can last the rest of your life.

Peace of Mind

Traditional dentures are prone to slipping out of place. Because implants fuse with the jawbone, they anchor your restoration directly to the jaw, keeping them in place while you chew, speak, and smile.
If you're interested in implants, our dental team in Chattanooga, TN, can assess if you are a candidate for the procedure. We understand that each patient has different needs and preferences, and will do our best to be transparent about cost, risks, and your candidacy.

Watch How Dental Implants Restore Missing Teeth...

See Which Style of Dentures Is Right For You Contact Our Chattanooga Dentist Office Today

Your oral health and number of missing teeth are two major factors in deciding which style of dentures is right for you. If your gums or a tooth is infected, Dr. Lunn can perform restorative dentistry so you're ready to enjoy your dentures. 

Dr. Lunn will review the strengths of each option with you and will help you decide which denture style is best for your smile. Request a consultation today or call:

(423) 553-8858

Our Chattanooga Practice Makes Patients Happy

1

Chelsey McCarley

2022

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The service and care of Dr. Lunn and his staff was phenomenal during my recent appointment.

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Steve Henson

2022

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Personable and professional service. In 57 years, I have never had a better dental experience!

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Considerations for Implant-Supported Dentures

If you're interested in implants, our dental team in Chattanooga, TN, can assess if you are a candidate for the procedure. To qualify, you must be healthy enough to undergo surgery and have sufficient jawbone density.

You also need to consider the additional costs that come with dental implants. Unfortunately, most insurances do not cover implants or the preliminary procedures you may need to improve your candidacy. While treatment is generally much more expensive than traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures come with incredible benefits that make them worth the investment. 

During your consultation, we will determine if you qualify for dental implants and provide you with a personalized cost estimate. We can also talk about payment plans and financing options to help make your treatment more affordable. 

Man smiling

What to Expect During Your Treatment

We strive to make every patient as comfortable as possible.
We strive to make every patient as comfortable as possible.

Consultation

During this meeting at our Chattanooga practice, we will discuss your medical history and treatment goals. We will also assess the health of your teeth and gums to create a treatment plan that best fits your individual needs.

Preparation

After you and your dentist determine which type of denture is best for you, you will undergo any necessary preparatory procedures, such as tooth extraction to remove any remaining damaged teeth. 

Implant Placement

If you opt for dental implants, you must first undergo placement surgery and allow three to six months for the implant to successfully fuse to the jawbone.

Impressions

At this point, a dental scanner can be used to make an accurate impression of your mouth, ensuring a perfect fit for your restoration.

Fabrication

We will then send your impression to our trusted dental lab, where they can create dentures that look just like natural teeth.

A New Smile

In the final stage of your implant treatment plan, your full or partial restoration will be placed. Your dentist will ensure a precise fit. If needed, any final adjustments will be made.

Visit Our Relaxing Office

We understand that going to the dentist causes anxiety for many patients. At our office in Chattanooga, TN, we strive to make every patient as comfortable as possible. We're proud to offer a range of amenities throughout the office to help you feel more at home. Enjoy our warm blankets, noise-reduction headphones, DVDs, and more when you visit our Chattanooga, TN, office. To book your appointment, contact us online or call:

(423) 553-8858

Chattanooga Dentistry office interior

"I am happy to have found them"

1

Amber G

2020

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I absolutely recommend this office. The staff are so warm and welcoming. I am happy to have found them.

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1

Chad Myers

2020

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I feel very comfortable with the care provided here. Dr. Lunn and everyone there do an excellent job! Highly recommended.

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Are You Interested in Implant Dentures But Concerned About Pain?

Pain is often a major concern for patients who are interested in dental implants. We thoroughly numb the treatment site with a local anesthetic before surgery, for a virtually painless procedure.

As a member of the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology, Dr. Lunn also has advanced training to safely provide sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry can help you relax in the dental chair if you have arthritis, dental phobia, or special needs that make it harder to sit still.

Here are two options that can help make your dental implants easier to place:

Oral Sedative

Patient taking oral sedative

An oral sedative comes in pill form and is taken before you arrive at our Chattanooga dental office. You should expect to be deeply relaxed during treatment but not enough to fall asleep. You will remain responsive after the oral sedative takes effect.

IV Sedation

IV sedation

Intravenous (IV) sedation will put you in a deep state of relaxation after a few minutes. You will be able to respond to questions from Dr. Lunn and breathe on your own. Like an oral sedative, IV sedation is predictable and has a reliable outcome. 

No matter which option you take, you will need a loved one to drive you to and from our office. The effects of sedation could last for hours after your procedure, so it is wise to rest at home until the effects wear off. If desired, our office also offers milder nitrous oxide sedation that wears off within 15 minutes after treatment. 

What to Expect After Treatment 

After receiving your dentures, there will be a short adjustment period as you get used to the new dental device. It may initially feel like a strange and foreign object in your mouth, but with practice, you'll learn how to eat and speak with them comfortably. You may also experience soreness in the cheeks and mouth, but this will fade over time. Our team at Chattanooga Family Dentistry recommends starting slow with soft foods and gradually introducing more challenging foods.

It's essential to maintain oral hygiene and take care of your new dental appliance to ensure its longevity.

"They are amazing!"

1

Barbara Ensley

2022

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Dr Lunn and his staff are professional while still being compassionate and patient. They have shown me a tremendous amount of understanding and really work with me to get through dental appointments as comfortably and efficiently as possible! They are amazing!

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1

YOLANDA ECHOLS

2022

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Dr. Andrew Lunn and his staff are great! I was treated with dignity and respect from the minute I entered the office until I left. I had several major problems and Dr Lunn did a great job completing my work. He took the time to explain each step! Thank you to Dr Lunn and his wonderful staff.

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FAQ About Dentures

When will I get used to my denture?

On average, patients adjust to their dentures in about 30 days. Over time, the denture will start to feel normal, any irritation or discomfort should subside, and you’ll get used to eating and speaking with the dental appliance. Thanks to modern techniques and technology, today’s dentures feel more natural than ever, allowing patients to get used to them quickly.

How long can I wear my denture each day?

Most patients wear their dentures comfortably all day, but they should be taken out at night and stored in a glass of room temperature water or denture solution. Taking your dentures out for at least eight hours every night will give your gums a chance to recover and prevent oral health problems.

Will my dentures need to be replaced?

When cared for properly, full dentures typically last between five and 15 years, partial dentures can last for 15 years, and implant-supported dentures can last for 20 years or longer; however, structural changes to your mouth as you age and regular wear and tear on the dentures will result in the need for them to be relined, rebased, or replaced to maintain proper fit and function.

Let Us Answer All Your Questions During a Consultation

We understand that receiving dentures can require some thought. We're here to help you make an informed decision. You won't have to commit to anything until you understand every part of the denture process. Even after you receive your dentures, our office will be here in Chattanooga, TN, to answer any questions you may have and ensure your new dentistry solution remains as effective as possible for as long as possible.

Do you still have questions? Contact us with our form or call:

(423) 553-8858

See What Our Patients Think of Our Staff

1

Sheri VanBilliard Walpert

2022

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The staff is amazing and so friendly. They work really hard to make sure you're a comfortable as possible and explain everything to you. Dr Lunn is very kind and personable. I was very comfortable with him. They also have a therapy dog that can help with calming your nerves. I highly recommend Chattanooga Family Dentistry, especially to people who fear going to the dentist.

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1

Apple Chcole

2022

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I researched long and hard where I wanted to be my primary dentist and I for sure found it! The moment I walk in I’m welcomed and the atmosphere was nice. Every sweet tech or assistant i interacted with was sweet as pie! Educated on my teeth, made me feel comfortable and overall the Dentist was straight to the point on what I needed and still had time to make funny small jokes while checking my teeth as well.

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What Is the Cost?
 

The cost of dentures depends on several factors, such as material, preparatory treatment, or if they are implant-supported. We're happy to provide an in-depth explanation of each, so you have a full understanding of what treatment entails. We work with many insurance providers to help offset the price of dental care.

We also accept CareCredit® payment plans. This third-party lender offers low-interest and interest-free payment plans to make out-of-pocket expenses a fit for your budget.

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Dr. Lunn

Chattanooga Family Dentistry

Dr. Andrew Lunn is a highly trained general, restorative, cosmetic, and implant dentist who has completed hundreds of hours of training in order to provide his patients with the most advanced care. He is a member of several prestigious organizations:

  • American Dental Association
  • American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
  • American Dental Society of Anesthesiology
  • Tennessee Dental Society of Anesthesiology
  • American Academy of Implant Dentistry
  • Tennessee Dental Association
  • Chattanooga Area Dental Association

To schedule an appointment at our family-friendly dental practice, request a consultation online or call us at (423) 553-8858.

Contact Us Today

So thankful to finally have a dentist who knows what he is doing!! Everyone is so friendly and makes me feel welcome. It takes away the anxiety of going to the dentist. Anna - patient

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