John W. Kershner DDS in Baltimore: Oral Surgery for Extractions, Implants, and Wisdom Teeth
John W. Kershner DDS operates a general oral surgery practice in Baltimore serving patients who need tooth extractions, dental implants, bone grafting, and wisdom tooth removal. The practice functions primarily on referral from other dentists, though patients can call directly to request an evaluation for surgical cases that fall outside the scope of general dentistry.
What Kershner DDS Actually Is
Kershner DDS is a dedicated oral surgery practice, not a general dental office. Oral surgeons complete four years of dental school plus an additional four years of surgical residency training focused on managing complex extractions, placing implants, and treating oral pathology. This specialization distinguishes the practice from general dentists, who handle routine cleanings, fillings, and some extractions but typically refer complex cases to specialists. Kershner works with referrals from Baltimore-area general dentists, but does accept self-referred patients who contact the office directly.
Services and Sedation Options
The practice handles third molar (wisdom tooth) extractions, which account for a significant share of referrals. Surgical extractions of teeth with curved or broken roots, impacted teeth, or dense bone also fall within scope. Dental implant placement is offered, typically in consultation with a patient's general dentist for restorative work. Bone grafting and sinus elevation procedures prepare the jaw for implant placement when bone volume is insufficient.
Sedation levels vary based on case complexity and patient preference. Local anesthesia with nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is available for anxious patients. IV conscious sedation deeper than nitrous is standard for most third molar cases; the patient remains responsive but has limited memory of the procedure. The cost structure for sedation reflects the level chosen and is quoted after consultation. Verify current pricing by calling directly, as sedation and facility fees vary by case complexity.
How Kershner Compares to Other Baltimore Oral Surgeons
Baltimore has several dedicated oral surgery practices. University of Maryland School of Dentistry operates a clinic with oral surgery residents and faculty; treatment there tends to cost less but appointment lead times run longer because care is provided in a teaching setting. Mercy Medical Center and Johns Hopkins also have oral surgery departments, primarily for hospital-based trauma and complex reconstruction. Private practices like Kershner DDS offer shorter scheduling windows (often 1 to 3 weeks for routine extractions) but at higher out-of-pocket cost unless insurance covers surgical procedures. Choose Kershner if you want predictable scheduling and continuity with one surgeon; choose the UM clinic if cost is the primary driver and you have flexibility on timing.
Who This Practice Suits
Kershner suits patients whose general dentist has identified a surgical case and recommended referral, as well as patients with dental anxiety who want IV sedation for extractions. It also serves patients seeking implant evaluation who want an oral surgeon's assessment before committing to implant treatment. The practice may not suit patients without dental insurance looking for the lowest-cost extraction option; UM's clinic or community health centers offer more affordable emergency extraction.
The Referral and Consultation Process
Most patients arrive via referral from their general dentist, who will have outlined the proposed treatment. When you arrive for consultation, bring any radiographs (X-rays) your dentist has taken. Kershner will examine the tooth or site, review imaging, discuss sedation preferences, and quote fees. Many insurance plans require pre-authorization for surgical extractions and implant placement; Kershner's office typically handles submission. If you are self-referred, call first to confirm the practice can evaluate your specific case; some offices do not accept certain types of referrals.
Hours, Location, and Parking
Verify current hours and location by phone before your first visit, as office details can change. Oral surgery practices often maintain limited hours (afternoon or Wednesday specialization is common). Parking details depend on office location; call ahead to confirm whether street parking, a lot, or garage access applies to your appointment.
Why Kershner Earns Its Spot in Baltimore
The practice fills the critical gap between general dentistry and hospital-based oral surgery, offering Baltimore patients direct access to surgical expertise without unnecessary hospitalization. For patients needing wisdom teeth removed or implants placed, referral to a dedicated oral surgeon prevents complications that might otherwise land them in an emergency room.
