Dr. Michael T. Scerba in Baltimore: Oral Surgery with Implant and Extraction Focus

Dr. Michael T. Scerba operates a private oral surgery practice in Baltimore serving patients who need tooth extractions, implant placement, and related surgical procedures. As a DDS-credentialed oral surgeon, Scerba works with both general dentists who refer patients and individuals seeking surgical care directly, offering sedation options for procedures ranging from simple extractions to complex implant cases.

What Scerba's Practice Offers

Scerba's practice centers on the surgical side of dentistry. The core procedures include wisdom tooth extraction, routine tooth removal, dental implant placement, bone grafting, and pre-prosthetic surgery to prepare the jaw for dentures or bridges. Patients typically arrive either by referral from a general dentist (who identifies the need for surgery) or as self-referred cases where a patient has already decided on implant treatment. The practice accommodates both simple and complex cases, distinguishing it from general dental offices that handle routine cleanings and fillings.

Sedation Options and Procedure Comfort

Oral surgeons in Baltimore vary widely in sedation capability. Scerba's practice offers options beyond local anesthesia, though the specific menu (IV sedation, nitrous oxide, general anesthesia) should be confirmed directly with the office. Sedation choice affects cost, recovery time, and candidate eligibility; patients with medical conditions or anxiety often prefer deeper sedation, while others prefer lighter options to drive home the same day. Clarify your sedation preference before your first visit, as insurance approval sometimes depends on the procedure and sedation level selected.

How Scerba Compares to Other Baltimore Oral Surgeons

Baltimore's oral surgery landscape includes Scerba's practice alongside hospital-based programs (Mercy Medical Center and Johns Hopkins have oral surgery departments) and independent practitioners. Hospital-based surgeons handle complex trauma and surgical cases and serve as teaching programs; private practitioners like Scerba typically focus on implants, extractions, and routine surgical procedures, often with shorter wait times and no teaching-hospital overhead. Choose a hospital program if your case involves trauma, jaw reconstruction, or medical complexity; choose a private practice like Scerba's if you need routine extraction or implant work and prefer a dedicated oral surgery office without hospital wait times or facility fees.

Who Scerba's Practice Suits

Scerba's practice suits patients needing tooth removal or implant surgery who are medically stable enough for office-based anesthesia. It works well for those with dental referrals already in hand (no separate consultation needed) and for self-referred implant patients ready to plan treatment. The practice does not handle pediatric patients routinely; if you have a child needing extraction, verify age policy before scheduling. It also does not substitute for emergency room care in cases of severe infection, jaw fracture, or acute trauma, though urgent surgical needs during business hours can often be accommodated.

What Your First Visit Involves

An initial visit begins with imaging (X-rays, often a CBCT scan for implants) to assess bone, tooth position, and surgical approach. If you are a new patient referred by your dentist, that office may send records ahead; otherwise, bring any existing dental X-rays. Dr. Scerba reviews findings, discusses sedation options, and explains the procedure, timeline, and cost. Implant cases involve a separate planning phase; extractions may sometimes be scheduled for the same appointment or a follow-up one. Insurance verification happens early so you understand your out-of-pocket responsibility before committing.

Hours, Location, and Parking

Scerba's office operates during standard business hours (typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; confirm current hours directly). The practice sits in Baltimore proper, making it accessible to city residents without long commutes. Parking availability depends on the building; street parking or lot availability should be confirmed when you schedule. Most patients schedule extraction or implant placement in advance, not as walk-ins.

Insurance and Cost

Oral surgery fees vary by complexity. Simple extractions range from $150 to $400 per tooth, depending on position and difficulty; wisdom teeth cost more. Implant placement typically runs $1,500 to $2,500 per implant (the crown placed on top is separate). Insurance coverage depends on your plan and the procedure code; many plans cover medically necessary extractions but treat implants as elective and deny or cover only a portion. Call Scerba's office with your insurance information before your first visit to receive an estimate. Sedation adds $150 to $600 depending on type and duration.

Why Scerba Fits Baltimore's Dental Market

Dr. Scerba fills a gap for city residents who need surgical dental work closer to home than Johns Hopkins or Mercy's teaching programs and with the specialized focus of an oral surgery practice rather than a general dentist's office.