Oral Surgeon Serving University City & UTC
University City is home to scientists, engineers, physicians, and researchers — people who understand the difference between adequate care and genuinely skilled care. McGann Oral Surgery is about 20 minutes south of UTC via I-5. Dr. Grant McGann is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with in-office CT imaging, IV sedation, and over 16 years of surgical experience at the same Front Street office.
Our Oral Surgery Services — and What Sets Each One Apart
University City residents have strong general dental care nearby. When a case requires a specialist — implants, surgical extractions, impacted wisdom teeth, jaw surgery — the right choice is a surgeon whose training and technology are built specifically for those procedures.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement that addresses the structural problem underneath — bone resorption — not just the cosmetic one. A missing root means the jawbone beneath gradually shrinks. An implant stops that process by integrating a titanium post with the bone and anchoring a crown that functions exactly like a natural tooth.
Dr. McGann plans every case using in-office 3D CT imaging, the Dentsply Sirona Primescan intraoral scanner, and Osteoid CT surgical guides. For University City patients who appreciate knowing exactly how a procedure is planned and executed, this is the level of precision that distinguishes specialist care from routine dentistry. Full osseointegration takes 3 to 6 months — most of which passes without patients noticing the healing process.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Third molars that are impacted, misaligned, or partially erupted create compounding problems over time — infections, cyst formation, root damage to adjacent teeth. Dr. McGann evaluates each tooth individually with in-office imaging and performs removals under local anesthesia or IV sedation based on the clinical picture and your preference.
For University City families with teenagers near the UCSD campus, or young professionals managing a busy schedule, the consultation is designed to be efficient and straightforward — clear imaging, clear recommendation, no pressure to proceed before you’re ready.
Tooth Extractions
When a tooth cannot be saved from decay, fracture, or advanced periodontal disease, a precise surgical extraction with a clear recovery plan is the correct next step. Dr. McGann performs extractions with the technique that comes from doing this full-time for over 16 years, and walks patients through replacement options — including implants — at the same appointment.
University City patients have access to specialist-level oral surgery 20 minutes south via I-5. Dr. McGann uses CT-guided surgical planning, in-office 3D imaging, and digital surgical guides for every implant case — a level of pre-surgical precision that most practices don't offer. IV sedation is available in-office for patients who prefer to be fully asleep.
Why University City Patients Choose Dr. McGann
More than 78% of University City residents hold a higher degree. That level of education tends to produce patients who research their providers carefully — and hold them to a high standard. Dr. McGann’s background holds up to that scrutiny.
He completed a 4-year OMS residency at Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. — a high-volume surgical training program — and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, a credential held by fewer than half of practicing oral surgeons in the U.S. The Front Street team has been together since 2008.
What University City patients tend to mention:
- Pre-surgical CT planning as standard practice — not an upgrade, built into every case
- IV sedation in-office — no hospital or surgical center required
- Consistent team since 2008 — Rachel, Natalia, and Enrique have been here from the start
- Personal follow-up from Dr. McGann — he calls every surgical patient after their procedure
Does McGann Oral Surgery Accept Insurance?
Yes. The practice is in-network with most major PPO dental plans — including Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of CA, Cigna, Delta Dental, Guardian, Humana, MetLife, and United Healthcare. For certain procedures, medical insurance may apply instead of dental.
Enrique handles insurance and billing for every patient before any procedure. See the full list of insurance plans we accept.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is McGann Oral Surgery from University City and UTC?
About 20 minutes south via I-5. Take I-5 south from University City and exit at Washington Street or Front Street. The office is at 3861 Front Street, CA 92103. Parking is available on-site.
What's the difference between IV sedation and general anesthesia?
IV sedation brings you to a deeply relaxed, sleep-like state where you’re unaware of the procedure and form no memories of it — but you can be roused if needed. General anesthesia renders you fully unconscious and requires an anesthesiologist and a hospital or surgical center setting. Dr. McGann’s in-office IV sedation achieves a similar level of comfort without the hospital environment, and patients typically recover faster with less nausea. Learn more about sedation options.
How does CT-guided implant planning improve outcomes?
Traditional implant placement relies on 2D X-rays and intraoperative judgment. CT-guided planning maps your bone structure, nerve locations, and anatomy in three dimensions before surgery begins — allowing Dr. McGann to determine the precise implant position, angle, and depth in advance. The result is smaller incisions, fewer surprises during surgery, and a more predictable outcome.
I had a tooth pulled somewhere else. Can Dr. McGann still place an implant?
Yes. Once a tooth root is lost, the surrounding jawbone begins to resorb. The longer a gap remains, the more bone volume is lost — which can eventually require bone grafting before an implant is possible. Addressing tooth replacement earlier in the process typically means a simpler procedure and better long-term results.
What's the best route from University City to the office?
What’s the best route from University City to the office? Take I-5 south from University City. Exit at Washington Street, head east, then turn right onto Front Street. The office is at 3861 Front Street, CA 92103. Get directions.
Serving University City, UTC, and Surrounding Communities
McGann Oral Surgery sees patients from University City, UTC, Sorrento Valley, Mira Mesa, Torrey Pines, and surrounding communities. For complex implant cases and corrective jaw surgery, patients travel from across the region.
If you’re a University City resident looking for a board-certified oral surgeon whose precision and credentials match the standard you hold every provider to, the consultation is where that conversation starts.
Call (858) 874-8181 or schedule a consultation online.