Elizabeth C. Moore DDS in Baltimore: Surgical Extraction and Implant Placement

Elizabeth C. Moore DDS operates as an oral surgery practice in Baltimore providing extraction, implant placement, and related surgical procedures typically referred from general dentists or dental specialists across the region.

What this practice actually is

Oral surgeons hold a specialty credential distinct from general dentists, involving two or more years of postdoctoral surgical training. Moore's practice focuses on extractions (simple and complex/surgical), dental implant placement, bone grafting, and management of impacted teeth. Patients typically arrive by referral from a treating general dentist or specialist, rather than as walk-ins seeking primary dental care. The practice serves both routine cases and those requiring advanced surgical technique, positioning it as a secondary-care provider within Baltimore's dental network.

Procedures, sedation, and referral pathway

Oral surgeons in Baltimore handle tooth removal, but the complexity and sedation level vary. Simple extractions (fully erupted, straightforward removal) may proceed under local anesthesia alone or with nitrous oxide; complex extractions involving impacted or deeply rooted teeth often use IV sedation or general anesthesia. Implant surgery places a titanium root into the jawbone under local anesthesia with or without sedation, depending on extent and patient preference.

Most patients arrive with a referral from their general dentist, who identifies the need for extraction or implant planning at a routine exam or during active treatment. Some patients self-refer for a second opinion or implant consultation after initial assessment elsewhere. Ask at the time of booking whether your dentist's referral is required; many practices accept patient-initiated consultations but coordinate care notes with the referring doctor.

Pricing for oral surgery varies by procedure. Tooth extraction ranges from roughly $200 to $300 for a simple, non-surgical removal, to $400 to $800 or more for surgical extraction of impacted molars. Implant placement runs $1,500 to $2,500 per implant, with bone grafting adding $400 to $1,500 depending on graft source and volume. Before scheduling, request an itemized estimate; many offices provide one after a brief phone consultation or after an in-person assessment. Insurance coverage depends on plan type and the diagnosis; coverage for extractions is typically higher than for implants, which some plans classify as elective. Verify coverage and patient responsibility before committing.

How Moore DDS compares to other Baltimore oral surgeons

Baltimore has multiple oral surgery practices, and the choice often hinges on location, sedation philosophy, and implant expertise. University of Maryland School of Dentistry operates a faculty practice in Baltimore offering comprehensive oral surgery at academic pricing, often lower than private practice, though appointment availability reflects teaching priorities. Mercy Medical Center in inner Baltimore houses an oral surgery department serving patients with complex medical histories. Private practices such as Moore DDS typically offer faster scheduling and sedation autonomy; patients report appointment availability within 1 to 3 weeks rather than 6 to 8 weeks common in hospital-based or academic settings.

Choose a hospital-based or academic program if you have significant medical comorbidities, require general anesthesia with full monitoring, or prioritize lower cost. Choose a private practice like Moore DDS if you need extraction or implant placement on a shorter timeline, prefer nitrous oxide or IV sedation in an office setting, and value direct relationships with a single surgeon.

Who suits this practice and who does not

Moore DDS is best suited to patients with simple to moderately complex extraction or implant needs, adequate bone volume for implant placement, and ability to attend follow-up appointments over several weeks to months (implant integration takes 3 to 6 months before crown placement). Patients with significant dental anxiety benefit from sedation options available in most private practices.

Patients with uncontrolled diabetes, advanced heart disease, or bleeding disorders may require hospital setting and anesthesia monitoring beyond office capability. Those seeking implants must have sufficient remaining bone or willingness to undergo bone grafting first; a preliminary CT scan (CBCT) identifies feasibility. Patients with extremely limited budgets may find academic or community health center extractions more accessible.

The first visit

A consultation includes review of medical history (especially medications affecting bleeding or healing), imaging (X-rays or CBCT), and discussion of sedation preference. The surgeon examines the tooth or implant site, assesses bone volume and anatomy, and explains options and timeline. If extracting, the visit may include pre-operative lab work if indicated by medical history. If planning an implant, the doctor reviews whether immediate placement (same visit as extraction) or delayed placement (4 to 6 months after extraction and bone healing) suits your anatomy. Bring your insurance card and a list of current medications, including supplements.

Hours, location, and logistics

Confirm hours directly with the practice; oral surgery schedules often include early morning slots (for sedation cases) and may span Monday through Friday or include Saturday availability. Most private practices offer parking on-site or nearby; ask at booking whether lot validation is available. Street parking around Baltimore neighborhoods varies by location; request specific directions when you call.

Elizabeth C. Moore DDS fills a surgical need for referred patients across Baltimore, bridging the gap between routine dental care and hospital-level complexity.