Hank Gakavian in Baltimore: A General Dentist Focused on Preventive Care and Restorations
Hank Gakavian is a general dentist operating in Baltimore who emphasizes preventive care, routine cleanings, and restorative procedures like fillings and crowns for adult patients. The practice accepts most major insurance plans and offers a structured new-patient appointment that includes a full examination and treatment plan before any work begins.
What Hank Gakavian actually does
Gakavian provides preventive dentistry (cleanings, exams, X-rays), composite and amalgam fillings, crown and bridge work, and basic extractions. The practice does not offer orthodontics, implants, or cosmetic specialties like whitening or veneers. Most appointments are scheduled; the practice does not accept walk-ins. Gakavian operates solo and typically books 4 to 6 weeks out for new patients.
Services and pricing
Routine exams and cleanings run $120 to $180 depending on whether scaling or other periodontal procedures are needed. X-rays, included in a new-patient visit, add no separate charge. Fillings (composite or amalgam) cost $150 to $300 per tooth. Crowns and bridges average $800 to $1,200 per unit and require two visits (preparation and fitting). Extractions start at $75 for a simple tooth.
Insurance coverage varies by plan; Gakavian accepts Cigna, Delta Dental, Aetna, and several others. Patients should confirm coverage before scheduling, as deductibles and copays differ widely. The office offers a discount plan for uninsured patients, reducing routine cleaning to $80 and fillings to $120 to $200, though this membership is not automatically applied.
How Gakavian compares to other Baltimore general dentists
Baltimore has dozens of general dentistry practices. Gakavian's main strength is direct dentist-patient interaction; he performs most procedures himself rather than delegating to associates. Competitors like Dental Works Baltimore or practices within the Chesapeake Dental network often employ multiple dentists and hygienists, which can mean faster scheduling but less continuity. CareCredit and in-house payment plans are standard across the city; Gakavian offers them, but does not aggressively advertise financing, so patients must ask at check-in.
Choose Gakavian if you prefer a stable relationship with one provider and do not require specialist services under one roof. Choose a larger practice if you need evening or weekend hours, or if you want a backup dentist when your preferred provider is unavailable.
Who it suits and who it does not suit
Gakavian suits adults seeking consistent preventive and restorative care. His practice is appropriate for patients with straightforward dental needs and typical insurance coverage. The practice is not a fit for patients requiring pediatric care (Gakavian does not treat children under 16), orthodontics, implant placement, or complex oral surgery. Patients requiring urgent or emergency treatment outside regular hours should plan accordingly; the office does not maintain an emergency line or answering service after 5 p.m.
What the first visit involves
A new-patient appointment lasts 60 to 90 minutes. The hygienist performs a full cleaning and takes bitewings and full-mouth X-rays. Gakavian then examines the mouth, reviews X-rays, and discusses findings with the patient. If cavities, worn restorations, or other issues are found, he presents a written treatment plan with costs and timelines before proceeding. Patients are not pressured to accept treatment the same day. Insurance benefits are verified before the visit if the patient provides a card at scheduling.
Hours, parking, and logistics
Gakavian operates Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. (verification recommended, as hours occasionally shift for continuing education). The office is located at a street-front address in the Canton neighborhood and offers free street parking; there is no dedicated lot. Public transit via the #10 or #13 bus is accessible within one block. Wheelchair accessibility is available at the entrance, though the operatory is on the main floor.
Gakavian is a reliable choice for adults in Baltimore who value consistency and clear communication in preventive and restorative care and do not need specialist services or flexible scheduling.
