Donald T. Frey, DDS in Baltimore: General Dentistry with Direct Pricing and Same-Day New-Patient Visits
Donald T. Frey, DDS operates a private general dentistry practice in Baltimore that handles preventive care, fillings, cleanings, and restorative work, with a defined fee schedule and a standard new-patient pathway that does not require a prior referral.
What the practice is
Frey's practice is a one-provider office focused on general dentistry. He does not advertise cosmetic specialization, orthodontics, or oral surgery. The scope matches standard general dentistry: cleanings and exams, fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions (simple), dentures, and periodic care. For extractions or implant work beyond routine scope, patients are referred out. The practice accepts new patients regularly and operates on a straightforward fee-for-service and insurance reimbursement model.
Services and pricing
Common services and typical fees (verify before scheduling, as fees may adjust annually):
- Initial exam and X-rays: $100 to $150
- Routine cleaning and exam: $75 to $120
- Composite filling (per tooth): $120 to $200
- Crown (lab-fabricated, all-ceramic or porcelain-fused-to-metal): $800 to $1,200
- Root canal (anterior, single-canal): $600 to $800; (molar, multiple canals): $900 to $1,400
- Simple extraction: $75 to $150
- Denture (complete, upper or lower): $600 to $1,000
The practice accepts most major insurance plans and processes claims directly. Patients without insurance can discuss payment plans or negotiate fees for major work. There are no in-house financing partnerships; payment is expected at the time of service or via agreement with the office.
Comparing to other Baltimore-area general dentists
Baltimore has many general practices, but two nearby alternatives illustrate different models. Cedar Hill Dental Care, also in central Baltimore, offers a similar fee-for-service model with multiple hygienists and extended hours (open Saturdays), which suits patients who need scheduling flexibility; Frey's practice is smaller and operates on a single-provider schedule. Chesapeake Dental Associates, a chain-affiliated group with multiple locations, uses lower published fees for routine visits ($50 to $75 cleanings) to attract volume, but waits for new patients can reach 4 to 6 weeks, whereas Frey typically sees new patients within 1 to 2 weeks. Choose Frey if you value quick access and a consistent single provider; choose a multi-provider group if you need weekend hours or want options if the primary dentist is unavailable.
Who this practice suits and who it does not
This practice works well for patients seeking a stable, single-provider relationship, those with standard insurance who prefer to avoid large-group protocols, and patients comfortable with straightforward fee disclosure. It does not offer pediatric programming (sedation, child-specific chairs, or specialized staff), so families with young children should seek a pediatric or family-oriented practice. Patients needing cosmetic dentistry or complex orthodontics will be referred out. Those who want extended hours (evenings, Saturdays) or walk-in emergency slots will find better fit elsewhere; Frey operates on scheduled-appointment-only terms.
First visit: what to expect
New patients call to book an appointment. The first visit is typically 45 to 60 minutes and includes a full mouth exam, digital X-rays, a cleaning by the dentist or hygienist, and a brief treatment discussion. The dentist will ask about medical history, medications, and prior dental work. Insurance information is collected at check-in; if you have coverage, bring your card. If no treatment beyond the exam is needed that day, you receive an invoice or insurance-billing estimate before you leave. If a filling or other restorative work is recommended, the dentist explains the options and cost; work is usually scheduled for a separate visit unless it is an emergency.
Hours, parking, and logistics
The practice is located in central Baltimore and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed weekends and major holidays. Street parking is available; there is no dedicated lot. Public transit access includes bus routes on nearby major streets. The office is not wheelchair-accessible (verify if this is a concern before scheduling). Contact the office directly to confirm hours, as holiday closures and summer schedule adjustments can vary year to year.
Frey's practice earns inclusion as a straightforward, transparent general dentistry option for Baltimore patients who prioritize predictable fees and continuity of care over group-practice features or cosmetic scope.
