Edward G Shaivitz, DDS in Baltimore: Direct-Bill General Dentistry Without Insurance Friction

Edward G Shaivitz, DDS runs a cash-based general dentistry practice in downtown Baltimore that handles preventive care, fillings, and routine restorations without the overhead delays of insurance claims. The practice operates on a direct-pay model—you pay at visit—which means no submitted claims, no explanation-of-benefits waiting, and no surprise bills from out-of-network denial games.

What This Practice Actually Offers

Shaivitz provides traditional preventive and restorative services typical of a general dentist: cleanings, exams, X-rays, fillings, extractions, and minor oral surgery. The practice does not offer orthodontics, implants, or cosmetic whitening. For those services, you would need referral to a specialist. The direct-pay structure means the office does not participate in insurance networks, making it a workable choice for patients with high deductibles, those between jobs, or people who prefer to avoid insurance submission delays.

Pricing and Payment Structure

Typical fees run $120 to $150 for an initial exam and X-rays, $80 to $100 for a standard cleaning, and $150 to $250 for a single-surface filling depending on material and tooth location. Extractions range from $100 to $300 per tooth. These figures are competitive with out-of-pocket costs at network practices once you account for copays and deductibles, though you should confirm current rates by calling. The practice does not accept insurance, so you handle billing and seek reimbursement yourself if your plan covers out-of-network providers at a percentage.

How This Practice Compares to Other Baltimore General Dentists

Most large dental groups in Baltimore, including those affiliated with University of Maryland School of Dentistry and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield-participating offices, bill insurance directly. That process takes weeks; you get a statement, the claim processes, adjustments happen, and then you pay your portion. Shaivitz's model eliminates that friction but requires you to front the cost and potentially manage out-of-network reimbursement yourself.

If you have a low deductible or a plan with strong in-network coverage, a participating practice like those in the Chesapeake Dental Group network or MedStar-affiliated clinics may save you money overall. If your deductible is above $1,500, you are paying out-of-pocket anyway at a network office, making Shaivitz's transparent, known-at-visit pricing more predictable. If you lack insurance or are between plans, the direct-pay model eliminates the need to find in-network availability and wait for eligibility verification.

Who This Practice Works For and Who It Does Not

Shaivitz suits patients who want to know the exact cost before sitting down, those with high-deductible plans or no insurance, and people who value speed of payment resolution. It works well for straightforward preventive and restorative work.

It does not work for patients with low-deductible plans expecting most costs to be covered, those who need complex reconstructive work or dental implants, or anyone who needs orthodontic care. If your employer plan has already paid your deductible and covers preventive at 100 percent, a participating general dentist will leave you with zero out-of-pocket cost per visit; Shaivitz will require payment regardless.

What Your First Visit Involves

Call ahead to schedule. The first appointment includes a full exam, digital X-rays (if new patient), and cleaning, lasting roughly 60 to 90 minutes. During that visit you will learn about any cavities or other findings. Treatment planning happens the same day; you will know costs upfront and can decide whether to schedule restorative work then or later. You pay cash or card at checkout, take a receipt, and can submit the itemized statement to your insurance carrier for out-of-network reimbursement if your plan offers it.

Hours, Location, and Parking

The practice operates in downtown Baltimore, though the specific address should be confirmed by calling, as office locations can change. Hours are typically 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekdays; call to confirm evening or Saturday availability, which is not standard. Street parking and paid lots are available nearby. Public transportation via the Light Rail and bus system serves the downtown core.

Shaivitz's direct-billing model addresses a real friction point in dental care—the claim-and-wait cycle—and works best for patients who value certainty over insurance subsidies.