David Handelsman, DDS in Baltimore: Oral Surgery with Implant and Extraction Focus

David Handelsman, DDS operates an oral surgery practice in Baltimore that handles extractions, dental implant placement, and bone grafting for patients referred from general dentists or seeking direct access to surgical treatment. The practice serves patients across Baltimore and surrounding counties who need procedures beyond general dentistry scope.

Procedures offered

Handelsman performs wisdom tooth extractions (routine and surgical), other tooth extractions, and dental implant placement and restoration planning. Bone grafting for implant site development is available when jaw volume is insufficient for implant placement directly. Patients requiring pre-implant assessment often start with imaging (panoramic or cone-beam CT) to determine surgical feasibility and implant positioning before the extraction or grafting phase begins.

Pricing for extractions varies by complexity. Simple extractions start around $100-150 per tooth; surgical extractions (impacted or severely broken teeth) typically range $250-500 depending on difficulty and bone removal required. Implant placement runs $1,500-2,500 per implant body, with additional costs for the crown, abutment, or bridge that follows. Bone grafting adds $300-800 per site. Confirm current fees directly; implant material and component costs change periodically based on supplier pricing.

Sedation options and referral pathway

Most extractions at oral surgery practices in Baltimore can be performed under local anesthesia alone, with nitrous oxide, or intravenous sedation. Handelsman offers local anesthesia and nitrous oxide; confirmation of IV sedation availability is recommended before scheduling. Patients undergoing implant placement typically proceed under local anesthesia with optional nitrous oxide, though some practices offer heavier sedation for anxious patients or complex cases.

Access is typically through referral from a general dentist, though many patients call directly for consultation if they know they need extraction or implant work. A first consultation usually involves exam, imaging review, and discussion of surgical approach and timeline.

How it compares to other Baltimore oral surgeons

Baltimore has several oral surgery options. Baltimore Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (a larger group with multiple clinicians) operates at multiple locations and handles complex cases including jaw reconstruction and orthognathic surgery alongside routine extractions and implants. That group suits patients needing subspecialty care or those without a referring dentist preference. Dr. Handelsman's single-provider practice typically involves shorter scheduling windows and direct communication with the surgeon; this model appeals to patients who prefer consistent care and less overhead in the fee structure.

Other established Baltimore oral surgeons include practitioners affiliated with university dental schools and private solo or small-group practices. Cost differences are often modest between qualified surgeons; the larger variation comes from the treating dentist's markup if a general dentist coordinates the implant restoration afterward. Patients recovering the crown or bridge from their referring dentist can expect additional fees ($800-2,000+) depending on whether implant components are included in the quoted price.

Who this suits and who it does not

This practice suits patients with straightforward extraction needs, single or multiple implants, or bone grafting for implant planning. Patients with severe dental anxiety may benefit from the nitrous oxide option but should confirm sedation depth with the office beforehand if deeper sedation is essential. It also suits patients who prefer a solo practitioner over a large group and value faster scheduling.

It may not be ideal for patients requiring extensive jaw reconstruction, severe orthognathic deformity correction, or trauma surgery, which demand broader hospital privileges and team support typical of larger maxillofacial surgery centers. Patients without a referring dentist and uncertain about implant timing or alternative options (extraction without implant, removable denture) should start with a general dentist for treatment planning before surgical referral.

What the first visit involves

A new patient usually books a consultation separate from surgery. The visit begins with exam and medical history review. Imaging is ordered if not recent (recent meaning within 6-12 months from a referring dentist's office). The surgeon discusses the surgical plan, sedation options, recovery timeline (typically 5-10 days of swelling and bruising, full healing 2-4 months for extraction sites), and cost. Some practices provide written cost estimates and financing information on the first visit. Questions about bone quality, implant timing, and temporary tooth replacement are addressed, though final planning may depend on post-extraction healing or CBCT results.

Hours, parking, and logistics

Handelsman's office location and hours should be confirmed directly; oral surgery schedules are typically Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with some surgeons offering limited weekend or early-morning slots. Street or lot parking in Baltimore neighborhoods varies; call the office for specific parking guidance at the address. Most surgical sites can be reached by public transit, but confirm if you rely on it.

A practice surgeon in Baltimore without hospital backup limiting emergencies earns efficiency through direct referral pathways and predictable case volume. Patients staying with the same surgeon for implant placement and extraction typically face lower coordination costs and fewer communication delays than multi-provider setups.