Mark Balenseifen, DDS in Oklahoma City: Surgical Extractions and Implant Placement
Mark Balenseifen, DDS is an oral surgeon in Oklahoma City who performs tooth extractions, including complex surgical cases, and places dental implants. His practice operates as a single-provider office focused on surgical procedures; patients typically arrive by referral from their general dentist or periodontist.
What this practice actually is
Balenseifen provides surgical services within the broader dental care ecosystem. Unlike general dentists who extract simple teeth, or periodontists who manage gum disease, an oral surgeon handles impacted teeth, removes teeth broken below the gumline, and performs the surgical portion of implant treatment. His practice does not provide cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, or general checkups. Referral-based practices like this one exist because most extraction and implant surgery requires training beyond general dentistry and a controlled surgical setting.
Procedures and sedation options
Balenseifen performs tooth extractions ranging from straightforward removals to impacted wisdom teeth. He also offers implant placement, which involves surgically anchoring a titanium post into the jawbone; this is typically done in stages, with the bone integrating around the implant over several months before a crown is attached by a dentist.
Sedation options should be confirmed directly, as policies vary widely. Many oral surgeons in Oklahoma City offer local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, or deeper sedation (IV conscious sedation or general anesthesia). The level available depends on the provider's training, credentials, and office equipment. Specifics on Balenseifen's sedation menu require calling the office directly.
Cost for extractions typically ranges from $300 to $800 per tooth depending on complexity; impacted wisdom teeth run higher, often $500 to $1,500 per tooth. Implant placement alone (not including the implant hardware or crown) generally costs $1,500 to $3,000. Verify current pricing and insurance coverage before scheduling, as costs shift with materials and individual anatomy.
How it compares to other Oklahoma City oral surgeons
Oklahoma City has several oral surgeons. Balenseifen operates as an independent, single-provider practice. Larger group practices in the area, such as those affiliated with dental schools or multi-location chains, may offer extended hours, emergency same-day slots, or on-site anesthesia with additional staffing. Choose a single-provider office like Balenseifen's when you want continuity with one experienced surgeon and a less institutional setting. Choose a larger group when you need flexible scheduling, emergency availability, or complex cases requiring multiple specialists in one place.
Who this suits and who it does not
This practice suits patients with a simple referral already in hand from their dentist, who prefer working with one surgeon, and whose extraction or implant needs are straightforward. It does not suit walk-in patients (referral practices do not handle unscheduled cases) or those seeking emergency extraction on short notice; call ahead to confirm scheduling windows.
What the first visit involves
A referred patient typically arrives with records or images from their general dentist. Balenseifen will examine the tooth or area, review any imaging, discuss the surgical approach, review risks and aftercare, confirm sedation preference, and schedule the procedure. Expect this appointment to take 30 to 60 minutes. Bring current insurance information and a photo ID.
Hours and location
Confirm hours and address directly with the office; these details change and a phone call ensures you have current information before driving. Most oral surgeons in Oklahoma City operate Monday through Friday during standard business hours, with limited or no weekend availability.
Balenseifen's practice is appropriately positioned for patients whose general dentist has identified a surgical need and wants a skilled extraction or implant surgeon nearby, making it a logical next step in the care pathway rather than a place to start.
