Robert A. Aiken DDS in Chattanooga: Oral Surgery with Sedation Options
Robert A. Aiken DDS operates a single-provider oral surgery practice serving Chattanooga and surrounding areas, handling complex extractions, wisdom teeth removal, and implant placement for patients referred by general dentists and from direct self-referral. The practice focuses on adult oral surgical care and does not treat pediatric patients.
What this practice is
Dr. Robert A. Aiken holds a DDS degree and practices general oral surgery, meaning he performs tooth extractions (routine and surgical), removes impacted teeth, places dental implants, and performs bone grafting procedures that support implant placement. He works alone as a single practitioner, not as part of a larger group. Chattanooga's oral surgery supply includes group practices like Pinnacle Oral Surgery (multiple doctors, expanded scope including corrective jaw surgery) and solo practitioners; Aiken's model sits at the smaller end of the local spectrum.
Procedures and sedation approach
Aiken offers nitrous oxide and IV sedation alongside local anesthesia, which accommodates patients with significant anxiety or those undergoing longer procedures. Extraction costs and implant fees vary by case complexity; a confirmation call to the office will clarify pricing for your specific procedure. Many insurance plans cover medically necessary extractions; implant coverage depends on your plan's cosmetic vs. restorative clause, so verify before scheduling.
When to choose this practice versus alternatives
Aiken suits patients who prefer direct access to the oral surgeon without going through a larger group's scheduling system, especially those already established with a referring dentist in Chattanooga. Solo practices often permit longer consultation times and may accommodate scheduling changes with fewer bureaucratic steps than group settings. Pinnacle Oral Surgery, by contrast, is better for patients seeking multiple surgeon opinions or requiring subspecialty procedures like orthognathic (jaw) surgery that exceed general oral surgery scope. If you need same-day extraction or have complex anxiety around procedures, confirm Aiken's current sedation availability and lead-time policies before deciding.
What a first visit involves
Patients typically arrive with a referral from their general dentist, though self-referral is accepted. The appointment begins with review of the surgical indication (a specific tooth to be removed, or the implant site). X-rays or a CBCT scan may be taken if not already provided by the referring dentist. The surgeon discusses sedation options, medications, and recovery, answers questions, and may perform the surgery on the same day or schedule it for a later date depending on complexity and the patient's readiness. Plan for someone to drive you home if sedation is used; local anesthesia alone may not require an escort.
Scheduling, parking, and logistics
The practice operates by appointment. Exact hours and the current phone number are best verified by contacting the practice directly, as small solo practices can shift schedules seasonally. Street parking or lot parking depends on the exact location within Chattanooga; a brief call when you schedule will clarify. Recovery time at home is typically one to two days following extraction or implant placement; follow post-operative instructions closely to minimize swelling and infection risk.
Why this practice works for Chattanooga
Robert A. Aiken DDS fills a focused niche in the city's oral surgery market, providing straightforward surgical extraction and implant care to patients who prefer working directly with a single surgeon and often shorter appointment wait times than larger group practices.
