Lisa Valentine, DDS in Baltimore: General Dentistry for New and Established Patients

Lisa Valentine, DDS operates a general dentistry practice in Baltimore, offering preventive care, restorative treatment, and new-patient services with a focus on straightforward, personalized practice.

What the practice is

A single-dentist general dentistry office, Lisa Valentine, DDS handles the full scope of preventive and restorative work without specialty branches. The practice is small enough that Dr. Valentine performs all patient exams and treatments herself, meaning no rotation among multiple providers. This model suits patients who want continuity of care and direct relationships with their dentist, particularly those managing ongoing treatment plans or with anxiety around dental care. The office is not an urgent-care walk-in clinic; appointments are scheduled in advance.

Services and pricing

Preventive services include cleanings, exams, and X-rays. A typical new-patient visit with exam and cleaning runs around $150 to $200 out of pocket after insurance; verify this rate directly, as it may change. Fillings for small to moderate cavities range from $150 to $300 per tooth depending on size and material. Root canal treatment typically costs $800 to $1,200 if performed in-office; larger or complex cases may be referred to an endodontist. Extractions range from $75 to $200 per tooth, depending on complexity. Crowns are usually $900 to $1,200 each. Most of these costs assume insurance coverage; uninsured patients should ask about cash-pay rates, which are often lower than insurance-billed amounts.

How it compares to other Baltimore general dentists

Lisa Valentine, DDS differs from larger group practices like Aspen Dental or emergency chains in two ways: overhead is lower (which can mean fewer upsell pressures), and continuity is higher (you see the same dentist every visit). It differs from specialized practices in that a single general dentist handles all basic and many intermediate cases, so you are unlikely to need external referrals for simple restorations. However, if you need complex periodontal work, orthodontics, or oral surgery, you will be referred out. Some Baltimore patients prefer this model because they avoid coordination headaches; others prefer larger practices where specialist networks are in-house. If you prioritize rapid appointment availability and walk-in hours, urgent-care or group-practice models serve that need better. If you value a quiet, familiar setting and direct access to your dentist, a small single-provider office like this is a better fit.

Insurance and payment

The practice accepts most major insurance plans, including Delta Dental, Aetna, and United Healthcare. Confirm coverage before your first visit; many plans require a waiting period for major restorative work like crowns. Out-of-pocket costs vary by plan and deductible status. Ask about payment plans if you face a large out-of-pocket bill for restorations; many small practices offer in-house payment arrangements or can direct you to third-party financing like CareCredit.

Who this practice suits, and who it doesn't

This practice works best for patients who already have dental insurance or can pay out of pocket, and who value a consistent provider relationship. Patients managing chronic conditions like gum disease or who need ongoing preventive care benefit from seeing the same dentist at each visit. Parents bringing children for routine care may find the smaller setting less overwhelming. The practice does not suit patients who need emergency walk-in care at odd hours; it is appointment-based during standard business hours. Patients with severe phobia who need IV sedation should ask ahead; many small practices do not offer sedation in-office and will refer you to an oral surgeon. If you need orthodontic treatment, implant placement, or complex periodontal surgery, you will be referred to a specialist.

What the first visit involves

New patients should expect a comprehensive exam, full-mouth X-rays, and a cleaning, typically lasting 45 minutes to an hour. Dr. Valentine will review your medical history, ask about current symptoms, and examine your teeth and gums. A treatment plan is usually discussed at the end if any restorative work is needed, and you will not be pressured to schedule extensive treatment at the first visit. Bring your insurance card and a form of ID. Arrive 10 minutes early to allow time for paperwork.

Hours, parking, and getting there

Verify hours directly with the office, as they may vary by season. The practice operates on a standard weekday schedule; confirm whether it offers early morning, evening, or Saturday appointments if you need flexibility. Street parking is available in the Baltimore neighborhood; confirm whether the office has dedicated lot parking. Public transit: check the MTA website for the nearest bus route and light rail access once you have the office address.

Lisa Valentine, DDS fills a clear role in Baltimore's dental landscape: it is a reliable, low-overhead option for patients who want continuity and simplicity, and who do not require specialty services or emergency availability.