Steven J. Schuster, DDS in Baltimore: Oral Surgery with Implant Focus

Steven J. Schuster, DDS, is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon based in Baltimore specializing in tooth extractions, dental implant placement, and surgical correction of jaw problems. His practice serves patients referred from general dentists across the region as well as those seeking second opinions on complex surgical cases.

What the practice handles

Schuster's scope covers tooth extraction (routine and surgical), dental implant placement and restoration, bone grafting for implant sites, correction of bite problems, removal of impacted teeth, and treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Patients arrive by referral from their general dentist or periodontist in most cases, though new patients seeking a surgical opinion are accepted directly. The practice does not handle general dentistry; patients must maintain care with a general dentist for preventive work and restorations.

Sedation options and extraction pricing

Local anesthesia is standard for all procedures. IV sedation and nitrous oxide are available for anxious patients or longer surgical cases; confirm current pricing for sedation add-ons when you call. Surgical extractions (impacted wisdom teeth, complex removals) typically range from $400 to $800 per tooth depending on difficulty and bone structure, though simple extractions of erupted teeth cost less. Dental implant placement alone ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 per implant; the implant crown itself is a separate fee handled by your general dentist's office. Bone grafting, when needed before implant placement, adds $400 to $1,200 per site. These figures reflect general market range for Baltimore surgical practices; confirm exact fees in advance since anatomy and complexity affect final cost.

How Schuster compares to other Baltimore oral surgeons

Baltimore has several oral surgeons, including practices in Canton, Federal Hill, and Harbor East. Schuster's focus on implant dentistry and surgical reconstruction makes him a natural choice for patients with failed teeth or severe bone loss who want a single surgeon to handle the surgical phase of implant treatment. Surgeons at larger group practices may have more same-day availability but less continuity with a single provider. If your case is routine extraction (healthy wisdom tooth removal, for instance), a general dentist with extraction experience or a community health center can often handle it at lower cost. If your implant case is complex, bone grafting is needed, or you have previous surgical complications, a dedicated oral surgeon is standard.

Who suits this practice and who doesn't

Patients with missing teeth who want implants, anyone facing wisdom tooth removal, and people with failed previous extractions or implants are well-served here. Those seeking cosmetic bonding, teeth whitening, or general cleanings need a general dentist. If you have severe medical conditions or are uncomfortable with surgical settings despite sedation, discuss alternatives with your general dentist first; some patients do better with hospital-based surgical centers where anesthesia support is on-site.

What the first visit entails

Bring your referral from your dentist, insurance card, and a list of current medications. Schuster will review your medical history, examine the problem teeth or implant site, and take X-rays or a CBCT scan if needed. If extraction is planned the same day, you will receive local anesthesia and the tooth will be removed; plan for someone to drive you if you chose sedation. If implant placement is on the agenda, discussion of timeline, bone adequacy, and cost happens first. Most surgical cases are scheduled for a second appointment after imaging is complete.

Hours, location, and parking

Schuster's office operates during typical business hours Monday through Friday; confirm exact times and whether emergency same-day slots are available by phone, as availability changes seasonally. Street parking and a nearby lot serve the practice location; ask when you book whether validated parking is offered. If you require evening or weekend access, ask whether your dentist can refer you to an emergency oral surgery center (Mercy Medical Center and University of Maryland Medical Center both provide after-hours surgical coverage for trauma and urgent extractions).

Steven J. Schuster is the surgical specialist to see when your case moves beyond routine dentistry and requires experienced hands for implant placement or reconstruction. His focused practice model ensures consistent care from the surgeon who knows your anatomy.