Root Canal Treatment
If you have an infected tooth, a root canal is the only way to save a damaged tooth and avoid the need for extraction.
At Chattanooga Family Dentistry in Chattanooga, TN, Dr. Andrew Lunn, DDS, is committed to keeping your smile intact.
Read on to discover how you can maintain optimal oral health and what you should expect from root canal treatment.
A Virtually Painless Root Canal Can Save Your Tooth
When an infection occurs inside a tooth, it can be incredibly painful, and time is of the essence. Rather than extracting the tooth, the team at Chattanooga Family Dentistry in Chattanooga, TN, will always try to save it with virtually painless root canal therapy. We offer sedation to make this important procedure comfortable and stress-free.
Notice Pain, Swelling, or Bleeding?
Symptoms like tooth pain, bleeding, or swelling can indicate a root canal infection. If you notice them, there is no need to go searching for an endodontist—Dr. Lunn can provide the care you need. Reach out to us now to arrange an emergency visit to our office.
What Is a Root Canal?
When deep tooth decay, a severe cavity, large fillings, or a crack or chip in your tooth causes the nerves and pulp to become irritated, inflamed, or exposed, it can lead to severe symptoms.
The Interior of the Tooth
The pulp chamber of your tooth contains blood vessels and nerves. The pulp extends into the root canals, which are the centers of the tooth roots. When your tooth sustains damage due to injury or oral health issues, bacteria can enter the pulp chamber, resulting in infection. An infection in your tooth will lead to swelling and inflammation of the surrounding tissues. It can eventually lead to infection of surrounding gum tissue and teeth and tooth loss.
The Root Canal Process
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure that involves removing the infected pulp in your tooth, disinfecting the inside, and sealing the tooth. The purpose of root canal therapy is to eliminate all soft tissue within the pulp and tooth canals, save the hard outer tissue of the tooth, and prevent reinfection. Root canals have a reputation for being painful, but you can expect comfortable treatment when you choose the right dentist.
Experienced in Root Canals
Dr. Lunn is one of only two general dentists in the Chattanooga, TN, area who offers IV sedation, which can help you remain comfortable and relaxed throughout treatment. We also offer oral conscious sedation and nitrous oxide sedation which we administer to patients at our comfortable dental office. Our team at Chattanooga Family Dentistry is committed to addressing your oral health issues while making the process as pain-free as possible.
We Can Provide the Relief You Need
It can be tempting to ignore your tooth pain or swelling and hope that it resolves on its own.
However, if your pulp chamber is infected, the only solution is root canal therapy. Fortunately, you don't need to go searching for an endodontist (a specialist in dental pulp). Dr. Lunn is qualified and experienced in providing this solution at his Chattanooga office.
Under our care, you can trust that we will take every measure to ensure your comfort.
We will continually earn your trust with our transparent explanations, our comfortable environment, and our highly capable staff.
If you are experiencing symptoms like tooth pain or swelling, call
(423) 553-8858
We Provide No-Judgment Root Canal Care
"His caring staff were wonderful." Chattanooga, TN, Trusts Dr. Lunn's Team
Austin Smith
2022
So I struggle with anxiety. And my experience at chattanooga family dentistry could have not went better. Super nice staff and it doesn't hurt to have a cute puppy walking around. It was more like a spa than a dentist office. I recommend this place if you are scared/nervous about a dentist visit.
View on GoogleKari Williams
2022
My daughter and I had a great experience at Dr. Lunn’s office. His caring staff were wonderful. My daughter‘s anxiety and fear of going to the dentist were quickly relieved by the adorable office mascot, Winston.
View on GoogleRefining Patient Smiles After Root Canal Therapy
Signs You May Need A Root Canal
Signs of infection in the pulp and root canals of your tooth include:
- Pain while chewing or biting
- Severe toothache
- Tender gums
- Decay of the gums
- Tooth sensitivity
- Discoloration of the tooth
An infection in the root canal of your tooth may cause:
- Swelling in your face, neck, or head
- Bone loss around the tip of the root
- Drainage problems that extend outward from the root
Teeth that require root canal treatment may not always trigger painful symptoms. That is why it is so important to undergo regular checkups that will allow your dentist to detect infections and other oral health issues that may not be apparent to you.
How We Keep Our Patients Calm and Comfortable
Our team offers sedation to ensure that all patients, including those with special needs, are able to relax during treatment. However, we believe that maintaining a calm environment goes beyond that. So, we make it a priority to instill simple yet welcoming touches throughout our Chattanooga office, like:
- Warm Blankets
- Scented Candles
- Flat Screen TVs
- DVD Players
- Our Therapy Dog, Winston
- Noise Reduction Headphones
We Can Provide Every Stage of Root Canal Care In a Single Office
A root canal infection can be a generally stressful and unpleasant experience, but getting the care you need doesn't have to be.
In addition to a root canal, you may need further treatment, like a dental crown. Depending on the practice you choose, this may require visiting an endodontist as well as other practices specializing in prosthodontics.
But Dr. Lunn's practice is here to provide every stage of treatment in-house, overseeing the entire process from beginning to end. In fact, if it is determined that the tooth cannot be saved, Dr. Lunn can place dental implants at our Chattanooga office. He is equipped to meet virtually any dental health need.
He and his team are proud to provide a full continuum of care for dental patients, whether you need a routine checkup, root canal therapy, or implant placement. Contact us to learn more about the advantages of our Chattanooga practice, or call
(423) 553-8858
Find Help
Chattanooga, TN, Recommends Dr. Lunn
"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!" Barbara Ensley, 2022
A Look at the Root Canal Procedure
A Root Canal Timeline: Step by Step
Our Chattanooga practice can save you a trip to the endodontist. Dr. Lunn will keep you calm and informed during your root canal treatment as he works to provide the relief you need.
Root Canal Recovery and Aftercare Instructions
Knowing how to care for your mouth as it heals is essential to minimizing the risk of needing a root canal again. Following your dentist’s instructions after your root canal can speed up recovery and prevent further problems.
You should avoid eating for a couple of hours following a root canal. Eating before your dentist recommends can damage or injure your tooth. After treatment, avoid drinking alcohol and eating anything hot, spicy, chewy, or crunchy for a few days.
Experiencing discomfort or tooth sensitivity is normal and can be relieved with over-the-counter medications. Brush and floss as usual and make sure to schedule biannual appointments for dental checkups.
If you notice swelling after your root canal, call your dentist as soon as possible. Swelling could be a sign of an infection or allergic reaction to the anesthetic. Contact our dental office with any questions regarding a root canal or caring for your teeth after treatment. You should also contact your dentist if you're experiencing severe pain or pressure that persists for more than a few days after the procedure.
Chattanooga Patients Talk About Their Dental Treatment
Sheri VanBilliard Walpert
2022
I'm honestly terrified of going to the dentist after a bad experience as a teenager but a long time friend recommended Dr Lunn and I'm really happy she did! 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.
View on GoogleNathan Socol
2022
I hate the dentist. Let me rephrase that actually. I USED to hate the dentist. Every single person I talked to or even interacted with was unbelievably nice. From the moment I stepped in the door til the last bit of work I had done they treated me amazing. They always made sure I was comfortable and okay with everything that was going on. I've never had an experience like this at any dentist in my life. My first time going here and I had pretty serious work done and they were amazing. My mouth has never felt better. I'd recommend this dentist to anyone even people like me who get uncomfortable at the dentist.
View on GoogleWe're Ready to Help You
Root canal procedures have developed a reputation for being painful, but the truth is that this treatment can relieve painful symptoms and save your tooth.
Dr. Lunn is a dentist who understands that emergency dental situations not only require great skill and refined techniques, but also a compassionate approach that makes the patient's comfort a priority. He will work efficiently to provide relief and restore your tooth in a way that looks totally natural.
Contact us for more information about our root canal services, or to request a dental consultation.
Call: (423) 553-8858
What Sets Our Approach to a Root Canal Apart?
A High-Tech Procedure
Dr. Lunn will begin root canal treatment by diagnosing the affected tooth. In cases where extensive bacteria caused severe infection of the tooth's pulp or tooth decay, a dentist may recommend endodontic treatment. Your dentist will begin root canal therapy by taking an X-ray to determine if signs of infections are present in your tooth or the surrounding bone. Our in-office CEREC® system can create a crown in minutes which allows us to complete most root canal treatments in a single appointment.
A Uniform Smile and Restoration
Once we have treated your root canal, we will take digital impressions that will be used to create a custom crown in about an hour. Dr. Lunn will place the crown, and after making any necessary adjustment, your treatment will be complete, and you can leave the office with a healthy smile. A dental crown can strengthen and protect your tooth from breakage. You may experience tooth sensitivity or gum inflammation around the treatment area, but this should subside as the tooth heals.
Clear Instructions After a Root Canal
Maintaining good oral health and closely adhering to aftercare instructions can help you avoid cavities and prevent further issues.
We provide our patients in the Chattanooga, TN, area with safe, virtually painless root canal therapy that relieves discomfort and helps keep your smile intact.
Technology Spotlight: The Intraoral Camera
Find Out Why Our Dental Patients Love Us
"My first visit was today. I am very nervous when going to the dentist. My dentist of many years retired and referred me to Dr Lunn. A wonderful experience. Personable staff. They even have a little dog that will sit in your lap to comfort you. I think this will be a fantastic relationship." Valerie Fraley, 5-Stars, 2021
Does Insurance Cover Root Canal Therapy?
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Yes, root canal therapy is covered at least partially by most insurances. We're happy to let you know if we accept your insurance before you visit. Please don't hesitate to contact our helpful Chattanooga team for endodontic treatment.
What If I Don't Have Insurance?
We accept CareCredit® financing, which allows you to pay for any out-of-pocket expenses with loans carrying little or no interest. So if you are uninsured, don't hesitate to get in touch with us—we can help make the treatment you need fit your budget.
If you are experiencing symptoms, it pays to seek treatment quickly. A neglected root canal infection can cause serious health issues. You could also lose your tooth, and a replacement will cost far more than timely treatment that allows you to keep your tooth in place.
Don't let a fear of cost keep you from pursuing the care you need. We are here to restore your oral health in a way that won't strain your budget, and will actually save you money in the long run.
