Alexander Chung, DDS in Baltimore: General Dentistry with Same-Day Crown Technology

Alexander Chung, DDS operates a solo general dentistry practice in Baltimore, offering preventive care, restorative treatment, and in-office crown fabrication for patients seeking a consolidated appointment rather than split visits.

What the practice actually is

Chung runs a patient-centered general dentistry office that performs routine exams, cleanings, fillings, and extractions alongside advanced restorative work. The defining feature is on-site CEREC crown milling capability, meaning patients can receive a finished crown in a single two-hour visit instead of returning for a second appointment weeks later. For uninsured or under-insured patients in Baltimore, where crown costs typically range from $900 to $1,400 depending on tooth location and material, same-day delivery eliminates the cost and inconvenience of a temporary restoration and lab fees. The practice sits at the intersection of accessibility and technology uptake, catering to working professionals and people with unstable schedules who value efficiency.

Services and pricing

Preventive visits (exam and cleaning) generally cost $120 to $180 without insurance, depending on whether X-rays are needed; most major and many minor insurance plans cover preventive care at 100% after deductibles are met. Fillings range from $150 (single surface, resin) to $300 (three-surface composite), though insurance typically covers 80% of restorative costs. Extractions run $75 to $250 per tooth based on complexity; surgical extractions or impacted teeth cost more. CEREC crowns are priced between $950 and $1,350, depending on material (feldspathic ceramic, lithium disilicate, or zirconia) and tooth position. Verify current fees directly, as material costs fluctuate.

Chung accepts most major PPO and HMO plans; patients should confirm coverage before scheduling, as co-pays and deductibles vary widely. The practice works directly with insurance for claim submission and pre-authorization on restorative and surgical cases.

How it compares to other Baltimore options

Baltimore's general dentistry landscape includes corporate DSOs (Aspen Dental, Smiles Dental), independent solo practitioners, and practice groups affiliated with Johns Hopkins and University of Maryland dental schools. Corporate chains typically quote lower initial fees but charge separately for lab work when same-day crowning is unavailable, often requiring a second visit. Practices affiliated with dental schools may offer reduced fees but longer appointment times and treatment by residents under supervision. Chung's advantage lies in bundled same-day restoration without clinic delays or supervisor review time. For patients prioritizing lowest out-of-pocket cost regardless of appointment structure, a clinic-based practice may offer better pricing; for those working full-time or managing multiple appointments, Chung's efficiency justifies the standard-rate pricing.

Who it suits and who it does not suit

This practice suits employed professionals with unpredictable schedules, people managing multiple dependents, and patients with significant dental needs who cannot afford time off for two separate crown appointments. It also serves uninsured patients who prefer to complete a major restoration in one visit and avoid interim temporary crown maintenance. Patients seeking cosmetic refinement or whitening-focused care should look elsewhere, as the practice emphasizes function and structural integrity over shade matching or smile design. Those without transportation or with severe anxiety around extended appointments should consider shorter, split-visit options elsewhere.

What the first visit involves

New patients complete a health history and consent forms approximately ten minutes before the appointment. Chung performs a comprehensive exam, including digital X-rays (if not done elsewhere in the past year), periodontal screening, and oral cancer assessment. A cleaning follows if no urgent treatment is needed. If a crown is required, Chung will discuss material options, verify insurance coverage, and schedule the restoration for the same visit or a return appointment within one to two weeks if time is tight. Expect the initial visit to last 60 to 90 minutes.

Hours, parking, and logistics

Verify current hours by phone or website, as dental practices in Baltimore often adjust scheduling seasonally. Street parking is typically available near most independent practices in Baltimore neighborhoods; confirm with the office whether dedicated lot parking is available. The practice is accessible by MTA bus routes serving central Baltimore. Schedule appointments at least one week in advance for routine cleanings; extractions and crowns may require a longer lead time depending on Chung's schedule.

Chung's integration of CEREC technology and same-day delivery into a solo general practice fills a real gap for Baltimoreans balancing work and health, making it a practical choice for busy adults.