Larry F. Mullinax DDS in Chattanooga: Extraction and Implant Surgery

Larry F. Mullinax DDS is an oral surgery practice in Chattanooga that specializes in tooth extractions, dental implants, and jaw-related procedures, serving patients who need surgical intervention beyond the scope of general dentistry. The practice draws referrals from general dentists across the region and accepts new patients seeking oral surgery evaluation.

What Mullinax DDS Actually Offers

Oral surgery sits at the intersection of dentistry and surgical medicine. Mullinax's practice handles the procedures that general dentists refer when a tooth cannot be restored, when implant placement requires bone work, or when jaw problems demand specialist-level diagnosis. This is not cosmetic dentistry and not the preventive or filling work a family dentist provides. Most patients arrive because their general dentist has recommended extraction, implant placement, or evaluation of a complex tooth problem.

The practice operates as a referral-based specialty office, meaning most new patients come with a treatment plan already discussed with their regular dentist rather than as walk-in consultations.

Services and Pricing

Mullinax performs tooth extractions (simple and surgical), dental implant placement, bone grafting, sinus lift procedures, and jaw surgery consultations. Pricing varies widely depending on complexity. A straightforward extraction typically falls in the $150 to $300 range; surgical extractions (teeth that require bone removal or sectioning) run higher, often $300 to $600 per tooth. Implant placement starts around $1,500 to $2,500, not including the implant crown placed later by a general dentist. Bone grafts and sinus lifts add $500 to $1,500 depending on material and scope.

Verify current pricing by calling the office, as surgical fees adjust based on complexity and material costs.

Mullinax accepts most major insurance plans and discusses financial options at the consultation, including out-of-pocket costs and insurance coverage thresholds.

How Mullinax Compares to Other Chattanooga Oral Surgeons

Chattanooga has multiple oral surgeons, and choosing one depends on whether you need a simple extraction or complex reconstructive work. Mullinax is a solo practitioner, which means consistent surgeon continuity and typically shorter wait times compared to larger group practices. If you are having a straightforward extraction and want a quicker appointment, a solo practice often schedules faster. If you need hospital-based anesthesia or extensive jaw reconstruction, a surgeon affiliated with a hospital system (such as those at Erlanger or CHI Memorial) may offer operating-room facilities that a private office does not. For implants alone, many general dentists now place implants in-house, so you don't necessarily need a specialist unless the case involves compromised bone or complex anatomy.

Mullinax is the appropriate choice for extractions, implants, and bone-graft cases; larger surgical centers serve patients who need institutional surgical support or whose procedure requires hospital admission.

Who Suits Mullinax and Who Does Not

Mullinax is ideal for patients referred by their general dentist for extraction or implant placement, and for Chattanooga residents who need a straightforward surgical plan without hospital-level intervention. The practice works well for patients on a budget who can manage cost through insurance coverage or monthly payment plans. It is not the right fit for patients seeking cosmetic dentistry consulting, pediatric extractions (the practice does not specialize in children), or extensive jaw reconstructive surgery requiring hospital OR access.

What Your First Visit Involves

A first visit to Mullinax includes a consultation with the surgeon, who reviews your referral from your dentist (if applicable) or discusses your chief complaint. You will receive an exam, likely digital X-rays or 3D imaging if bone anatomy needs assessment, and a discussion of your options. The surgeon explains the procedure, sedation choices (local, twilight, or general anesthesia depending on complexity), cost, and the recovery timeline. You typically do not undergo surgery on the first day; the initial visit is diagnosis and planning. Once you agree to treatment, the office schedules your procedure and provides preoperative instructions.

Bring your insurance card, photo ID, and a list of medications and allergies. Allow one hour for the first visit.

Hours, Parking, and Logistics

Mullinax operates during standard business hours; verify specific hours by phone. The office is located in Chattanooga and offers ample parking. Plan for recovery time after surgery: you should arrange a driver if receiving sedation, and plan two to three days of reduced activity for simple extractions, longer for bone grafting or implants. Sutures are removed in five to seven days.

Larry F. Mullinax DDS fills the oral surgery gap for Chattanooga patients whose treatment moves beyond general dentistry, offering direct surgeon continuity and clear procedural planning without the overhead or wait times of a large surgical center.