Stephen E. Kleiman DDS in Baltimore: Surgical Extraction and Implant Placement

Stephen E. Kleiman DDS is an oral surgery practice offering tooth extractions, dental implants, wisdom tooth removal, and bone grafting in Baltimore. The practice focuses on complex extractions and implant surgery, which means patients with severely damaged teeth, missing teeth, or compromised bone structure rely on Kleiman for procedures that general dentists refer out.

What Stephen E. Kleiman DDS actually is

Oral surgeons operate at a specialized level above general dentistry. Kleiman's scope includes surgical tooth removal (simple and impacted wisdom teeth), implant placement with bone and soft tissue grafting, extractions under various sedation levels, and treatment planning for tooth replacement. The practice does not provide general cleanings or fillings; it receives referrals from general dentists and accepts patients who seek a surgeon directly. Kleiman works with Baltimore patients who need extractive or implant surgery and holds the DDS degree, indicating dental school training and licensure by the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners.

Procedures, sedation, and referral

Kleiman offers surgical extractions and implant placement, the two core services in oral surgery. Impacted wisdom teeth (teeth that do not erupt normally) require surgical removal and represent a high volume of oral surgery cases in Baltimore. Extractions of severely compromised teeth, teeth with complex root structures, or teeth in sites where implants will follow are also routine.

Dental implants begin with placement of a titanium post into the jawbone, a procedure requiring bone density assessment and surgical skill. Bone grafting may precede implant placement if the ridge is too narrow or low. Some implant cases require sinus lift procedures (raising the sinus membrane to create bone graft space in the upper jaw). Kleiman's surgical training equips the practice for these technical placements, which general dentists typically do not perform.

Sedation options in oral surgery include local anesthesia only, nitrous oxide with local anesthesia, intravenous sedation, and general anesthesia. Kleiman's specific sedation policies and available levels should be confirmed directly, as sedation scope varies by license, equipment, and case complexity.

Referral pathways matter in oral surgery. Most dental insurance plans cover surgical extraction and implant placement at a percentage of cost. A general dentist or specialist (such as a prosthodontist planning a complex implant restoration) can refer; patients may also self-refer. Pre-authorization may be required depending on the insurance plan.

How to compare Kleiman to other Baltimore oral surgeons

Baltimore has multiple oral surgery practices. Shelly Reckling DDS, MS, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Federal Hill, offers surgical extractions, implant placement, and orthognathic surgery (jaw correction). Reckling's maxillofacial surgical training (MS credential) includes trauma and reconstructive cases beyond standard implant surgery. If your case involves significant bone loss, jaw deformity, or reconstruction, a maxillofacial surgeon may offer broader expertise than a general oral surgeon.

Another established Baltimore oral surgeon is Michael Herring DDS, whose practice includes extractions, implants, and wisdom tooth removal in the Canton area. General comparison across oral surgeons should focus on whether the practice handles your specific procedure (simple extractions versus impacted wisdom teeth versus implant surgery), sedation availability, and whether your insurance is accepted. All three practices are Maryland-licensed; none is inherently superior for routine extraction or standard implant cases. Choose based on your referring dentist's recommendation, insurance coverage, location, and whether your case has complicating factors (compromised bone, medical history, complex anatomy).

Kleiman's long-standing presence in Baltimore suggests established referral relationships with general dentists citywide, which can mean shorter wait times if your dentist refers regularly.

Who suits Kleiman, and who does not

Kleiman suits patients with teeth too damaged or decayed for filling or crown restoration, impacted wisdom teeth, and patients planning dental implants. If you are missing teeth and want a surgically placed implant (rather than a bridge or denture), Kleiman handles the surgical placement; your general dentist or a prosthodontist will then restore the implant with a crown.

Kleiman does not suit patients seeking general dental care (cleanings, fillings, root canals), pediatric dental care, or orthodontics. Patients with significant medical complexity (uncontrolled diabetes, bisphosphonate therapy, heart disease) may require additional medical clearance or referral to a hospital-based oral surgeon; verify during scheduling.

What the first visit involves

Your first visit will include a comprehensive evaluation of the tooth or site needing extraction or implant planning. Kleiman will take radiographs (X-rays) and possibly a 3D cone-beam CT scan to assess bone density, root anatomy, and nearby structures (nerves, sinuses). For extraction, the surgeon will discuss the surgical approach, what to expect during the procedure, and post-operative care (swelling, pain management, restricted diet). For implant planning, the visit covers whether your bone is adequate, whether grafting is needed, the timeline to implant placement, and what the full restoration process entails (implant healing, abutment placement, crown).

Sedation preference is discussed at this visit. If you need IV sedation or general anesthesia, the surgeon or an anesthesia consultant will review your medical history and may require clearance from your physician. Most Kleiman patients undergoing extraction or standard implant placement can proceed under local anesthesia with nitrous oxide if desired.

Hours, parking, and logistics

Specific office hours and parking details require verification directly with Kleiman's office. Oral surgeons typically operate Monday through Friday during daytime and early evening hours. Parking in Baltimore varies by neighborhood; confirm whether Kleiman's location offers dedicated lot parking, street parking, or nearby garage access when you call to schedule.

Post-operative recovery from extraction takes several days; most patients take one or two days off work. Implant placement allows faster return to normal activity (1–2 days), though healing of the bone around the implant post takes 3–6 months before the crown can be placed.

Why Kleiman's place in Baltimore

Stephen E. Kleiman DDS fills the necessary specialized role in Baltimore's dental landscape, handling cases general dentists cannot. Established oral surgery practices serve as the referral standard for patients whose dental needs exceed preventive and restorative scope, and Kleiman's surgical extraction and implant services define that level of care.