Nobody wants to lose a tooth — and if you’ve been told one needs to come out, it’s normal to feel anxious about what that actually involves. At McGann Oral Surgery in San Diego, Dr. Grant McGann has been performing tooth extractions since 2008. It’s one of the most common procedures in his practice, and that repetition shows in how efficiently and comfortably it gets done.
If your dentist has referred you for an extraction — or if you’re dealing with pain, infection, or a broken tooth — schedule a consultation to find out exactly what you’re looking at.
When Does a Tooth Need to Come Out?
Not every damaged or painful tooth needs to be extracted — but some do. Dr. McGann evaluates each case and gives you a straight answer on whether removal is the right call or whether another option makes more sense.
Common reasons a tooth needs to come out:
Severe decay — When a cavity has progressed too far for a filling or crown to restore the tooth structurally
Gum disease — Advanced periodontal disease can loosen a tooth to the point where saving it isn’t realistic
Crowding — Some orthodontic treatment plans require removing teeth to create space for proper alignment
Infection — An abscess that hasn’t responded to antibiotics or root canal treatment may require extraction to stop the spread
Trauma or fracture — A tooth broken below the gumline or split through the root often can’t be saved
Failed root canal — Teeth that have been treated but continue to cause problems may need to come out
An extraction isn’t always the end of the story. Once a tooth is removed, Dr. McGann can discuss replacement options — including dental implants — so you’re not left with a gap long-term.
The artwork in the office was created by Dr McGann’s family including grandmother Nancy McGann.
Why Patients Choose Dr. McGann for Tooth Extractions in San Diego
Most general dentists perform extractions as one of many procedures they handle throughout the day. At McGann Oral Surgery, extractions and surgical procedures are all Dr. McGann does. That focus makes a difference.
Surgical Training Built for This
Dr. McGann completed a 4-year Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency at Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. — one of the most rigorous OMS training programs in the country. That training specifically covers the cases that are hardest to manage: impacted teeth, broken roots, teeth near nerves and sinuses, and teeth with prior root canal treatment.
Think of it the way you’d think about any specialist referral. Your dentist is your primary care physician. For something surgical, you see the specialist.
A Full Day Focused on One Thing
Eight hours of Dr. McGann’s day are spent performing extractions and oral surgery — not cleanings, not fillings, not a rotating mix of dental procedures. That level of repetition builds a precision and efficiency that shows up in how the procedure feels and how quickly patients recover.
Anesthesia Options Your Dentist Likely Can’t Offer
Dr. McGann is licensed to administer IV sedation and general anesthesia in-office. Most general dentists aren’t. For patients who are anxious, have a strong gag reflex, or need a more complex surgical extraction, being able to go to sleep for the procedure is a meaningful option. Learn more about anesthesia options at McGann Oral Surgery.
IV sedation and general anesthesia are available for tooth extractions at McGann Oral Surgery. Patients rest comfortably through the procedure and wake up when it’s done. The surgical team is trained in anesthesia monitoring and recovery — you won’t be sent to a separate facility.
Fewer Complications, Faster Healing
Specialized surgical technique means less trauma to the surrounding tissue. Less trauma means less swelling, less post-op pain, and faster healing. Dr. McGann is also trained to manage complications — excessive bleeding, broken roots, nerve involvement — that can catch a general dentist off guard.
Complex Medical Cases Welcome
Patients with heart conditions, bleeding disorders, or medications that affect healing require extra surgical and medical oversight during a procedure. Dr. McGann’s training and in-office monitoring equipment are set up to handle those cases safely. Learn how we keep you safe during surgery.
Ready to get a clear answer on what your tooth needs? Call (858) 874-8181 or contact us online.
Do You Accept Insurance for Tooth Extractions?
Yes. McGann Oral Surgery is in-network with most major PPO dental plans, including Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of CA, Cigna, Delta Dental, Guardian, Humana, MetLife, United Healthcare, and others. Out-of-network and self-pay patients are seen at reduced rates, and the office assists with claim submission for PPO plans with out-of-network benefits.
Enrique, our financial services coordinator, has been with the practice since 2008. He’ll walk you through your coverage and what to expect out of pocket before your procedure. See the full list of insurance plans we accept.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a simple and a surgical extraction?
A simple extraction removes a tooth that has fully erupted and can be accessed without cutting into gum tissue. A surgical extraction is needed when a tooth is broken below the gumline, impacted, or has roots that are curved or fused to the bone. Dr. McGann performs both — and his surgical training means even complex cases are handled in-office.
Can my tooth be saved instead of removed?
Sometimes, yes. Dr. McGann evaluates each tooth before recommending removal. If a root canal, crown, or other restorative option is a viable path, he’ll tell you. If the tooth is too far gone to save, he’ll explain why extraction is the better call.
How long is recovery after a tooth extraction?
Recovery typically takes 7–10 days. Most patients notice the most swelling and discomfort around days 3–4 before things gradually improve. Strenuous activity should be avoided for the first 48 hours. See the full extraction recovery guide for a day-by-day breakdown.
Will I be awake during the extraction?
That depends on your preference and the complexity of the case. Simple extractions are often done under local anesthesia. For more involved cases — or for patients who prefer not to be aware during the procedure — IV sedation or general anesthesia is available.
What happens after the tooth is removed?
Once the extraction site heals, most patients want to discuss replacement. A missing tooth can cause neighboring teeth to shift over time and affect your bite. Dental implants are the most common long-term replacement option Dr. McGann places — ask about timing at your consultation.
Do I need a referral from my dentist?
No referral is required to schedule a consultation at McGann Oral Surgery. Many patients come directly after being told by their dentist that a tooth needs to come out.
Come In, Get a Clear Answer
If you’ve been told a tooth needs to come out — or if you’re dealing with pain and aren’t sure what’s happening — the best next step is a consultation. Dr. McGann will look at what’s going on, tell you whether extraction is actually necessary, and walk you through exactly what the procedure involves before you commit to anything.
No pressure, no surprises. Just a clear picture of where things stand.
McGann Oral Surgery is located at 3861 Front Street, San Diego, CA 92103 — get directions.