It is a privilege to have practiced Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery for these many years in the South Bay. I have now decided to retire, and look forward to the next chapter in my life. I am thankful to have shared that time with such wonderful patients, friends and colleagues. I am grateful to you all.
I am equally thankful to be able to transition my patients and practice to Dr. Matthew Tarakji, who I have known and respected over the years he has been in practice in the South Bay. Dr. Tarakji received his dental degree from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor where he graduated with honors and participated in several externships in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
I am equally thankful to be able to transition my patients and practice to Dr. Matthew Tarakji, who I have known and respected over the years he has been in practice in the South Bay. Dr. Tarakji received his dental degree from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor where he graduated with honors and participated in several externships in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Services
Our goal is to provide the oral surgery patient with the highest quality of care possible. We believe this goal is achieved by the combination of superior clinical judgment, exceptional surgical skill and the compassion of the entire office team. Our office constantly makes advances through continuing education, teaching and participation in organizations dedicated to the development and publication of state of the art patient care.
Doctor Richard E. Schell has lived in Southern California most of his life. He attended the Claremont colleges and received a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Harvey Mudd College, where he graduated with honors and distinction.
After graduation he earned a Master of Science degree in microbiology and molecular biology at UCLA, where he published numerous original scientific articles in molecular genetics, and worked as a teaching assistant in the Department of Chemistry.He then graduated from the School of Dentistry at UCLA and simultaneously earned a master's degree in oral biology doing research in cell membrane physiology.
After graduation he earned a Master of Science degree in microbiology and molecular biology at UCLA, where he published numerous original scientific articles in molecular genetics, and worked as a teaching assistant in the Department of Chemistry.He then graduated from the School of Dentistry at UCLA and simultaneously earned a master's degree in oral biology doing research in cell membrane physiology.
I wanted to thank Dr. Schell and his great staff of nurses for the excellent care they provided me in his office. I was recommended to Dr. Schell by several coworkers at my job. They had all been extremely pleased with the care they had received for extractions of teeth. My dentist also had great things to say about him and told me that he refers his patients to Dr. Schell as well.
Your first visit will be a consultation with the doctor. We will review your treatment plan from your referring doctor, discuss your surgical and medical history, including allergies. We will explain the diagnosis and discuss treatment options. We will discuss any questions you may have. Please bring your referral note from your doctor, any x-rays you may have and your insurance information.
Before anesthesia be sure to have a completely empty stomach for six hours prior to the procedure appointment. This includes food and liquids and water. Be sure to have a responsible adult driver to accompany you to the office and remain in the waiting room during the procedure to drive you home. Please check with our office prior to your appointment about any routine oral medications.
Reviews (26)
Mike Maready
Dec 29, 2019
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Dr. Schell did an excellent job of removing one of my wife's wisdom teeth. He and his staff are professional and courteous and took good care of her before, during, and after the procedure. They made sure all of our questions and concerns were addressed and even called us later at home to make sure she was doing OK. I also had a very positive experience a few years ago when Dr. Schell removed two of my wisdom teeth. I highly recommend Dr. Schell for your oral surgery needs.
Miles Griffiths
Dec 16, 2019
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Cherie H.
Sep 19, 2019
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Just came back from Dr. Schell's office. Our son had 4 wisdom teeth pulled out in June, wish we had known about Dr. Schell. Took husband here today to remove two wisdom teeth and had the BEST service. We got there, they took him in within a minute and we left in a little over an hour. Dr. Schell came out a few times to give me an update. VERY clean office, friendly office staff and his rates are excellent. Very impressed with this place and will recommend to everyone we know who needs his services. TOP notch quality Dr. Thank you Dr. Schell and staff!
K. F.
Jun 12, 2019
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Kind, Caring & Skilled!
Not able to find an oral maxillofacial surgeon in my PPO network to remove a fibroma (lump), I searched google and found Dr. Schell --
SO GLAD I did! Before I ever booked an appointment, he explained everything on the phone and when I met him, his kindness and compassion put me at ease -- he offered a fair cash price, performed the procedure with precision and care and followed up to see how I was doing. The other provider I consulted was afraid to remove the fibroma because the location in my mouth could result in possible disfigurement or a much thinner bottom lip
Not able to find an oral maxillofacial surgeon in my PPO network to remove a fibroma (lump), I searched google and found Dr. Schell --
SO GLAD I did! Before I ever booked an appointment, he explained everything on the phone and when I met him, his kindness and compassion put me at ease -- he offered a fair cash price, performed the procedure with precision and care and followed up to see how I was doing. The other provider I consulted was afraid to remove the fibroma because the location in my mouth could result in possible disfigurement or a much thinner bottom lip
Jenny M.
Mar 22, 2019
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3 weeks after having my son, I found out I had a massive tooth infection and had to get my tooth removed either in 3 weeks or as soon as possible by an oral surgeon. I was referred to Dr. Schell. The pin got so unbearable that I called him at his emergency number. He called me within an hour around 10pm and said he would try to squeeze me in the following day but do not eat or drink for 6 hours. His assistant called me at 8am and said come in around 10:45am. I got in and he did the surgery. He had a full schedule and a class to teach, he worked through his lunch to get me out of my pain. I can
Avi Almogue
Jan 26, 2019
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Dr Schell is an amazing doctor. Aside from his subtle sense of humor and making me feel calm, he made me me confident in my decision to extract my wisdom teeth. His staff was equally as pleasant. He is skilled and it’s evident he has much experience. The procedure was quick and painless. I will definitely be referring him a professional in his field of oral surgery. You are in good hands!
Brianna Findley
Sep 18, 2018
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Dr. Schell was great! I had put off getting my wisdom teeth for years until finally I had to get them done. I was very nervous and had high anxiety levels about the procedure. Dr. Schell and his staff were so amazing, they definitely made me feel comfortable about the whole thing. They were very attentive and answered any questions I had before the procedure and even after. Dr. Schell actually called me the day after to follow up with me to see how I was doing. I really appreciated the thoroughness of his office and I highly recommend them to anyone considering getting there wisdom teeth extracted
Christy R.
Feb 20, 2018
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I got an implant! Dr. Schell is very professional and excellent at what he does! He first referred me to a periodontist who initially made the diagnosis, differing from my "former" dentist. I came to Dr. Schell, with my broken tooth, which could not be seen by x-ray. He thoroughly explained the process and probability of success. I had it extracted and ultimately got an implant. The location of the implant was very difficult. Due to bone loss, he carefully performed a bone graft. He is so calm, he made me calm. We worked through step by step, easily scheduling each with his very kind
Sandy B.
Feb 13, 2018
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I was going to have one tooth extracted from this office because it had cracked down to the root and needed to come out. I had one other tooth extracted somewhere else and my husband had two extractions somewhere else as well. That's three extractions between the two of us and none of the other doctors told us they wanted to put us to sleep like D.D.S. Schell told me he wanted to do. A simple extraction only requires the area to be numbed by novacaine and that's it. This doctor claimed it was the proper way to do it. By the way, he wanted an additional $350.00 for that besides the price
Nicole P.
Sep 30, 2017
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Had my wisdom teeth pulled yesterday. I was super nervous for the sedation since it was my first time, don't even remember it. The process was very smooth I was in and out. I don't have much pain after the surgery. Dr. Schell also called my phone twice after the surgery to check on how I was doing which I thought was great, most doctors don't do that. I had to pay for my surgery out of pocket and he was very understanding and willing to work with me.
Al P.
Sep 13, 2017
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Chelsea H.
Sep 02, 2017
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I've been to the dentist my whole life I might as well be one . This office is way outdated I'm talking about 1960s look and feel . The equipment got the job done but is just as old as the building I was so damn nervous . The way they do things is very awkward . I'm a nurse and they had weird ways they did things . The staff is okay nothing to brag about when it comes to customer service . This place is overpriced . I would recommend going somewhere else . $600 with good insurance when my friend at work just paid half that with the exact same procedure . Good luck !
Chuck B.
May 11, 2017
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I don't fear many things in life except Dentists and Oral Surgeons. When I found out that I would need some teeth pulled and implants inserted my Dentist referred me to a great Oral Surgeon but he wouldn't put me to sleep while he was doing the procedures. As a result of this I told the Oral Surgeon I had been referred to that if I could I wanted to find an Oral Surgeon who would put me to sleep during the teeth pulling and implant surgery. I immediately looked at the Dentists and Oral Surgeons who were listed on my insurance plan and did a whole lot of research. When I came across
Randy L.
Dec 17, 2016
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My 14 year old daughter had all 4 of her wisdom teeth pulled last year, and I just realized I never left a review. Cannot say enough good things about the doctor and his office. Extremely helpful and professional. Insurance handled with no problems. And both a nurse and the doctor himself called within 24 hours of the surgery (both same day and next day). Loved coming here, and got great results.
Lulu Franks
Jul 01, 2016
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I have seen Dr Schell several times as I needed a tooth taken out then bone put in so I could get my implant. He spends time to explain and answer questions. He calls to check up on me after the surgeries. His staff is caring. I like his calm, clean office. I felt confident in his care. I have recommended other friends and family to him. They have been happy.I found his website helpful about instructions for after surgery and some of the information about dental implant treatment.
Jan M.
May 17, 2016
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I have a sad history of soft teeth & bone loss & feel fortunate to have found Dr. Schell who has been treating my complex issues since October of 2008. Being in the medical profession I am very particular in researching and selecting the best care providers to obtain the best outcomes.
I've had seven extractions & 5 implants, two requiring extra special care with complicated grafting & placement. Every procedure was fully explained with all possible options & outcomes, and Dr. Schell took the time to coordinate my care with my dentist & periodontist. I received detailed
I've had seven extractions & 5 implants, two requiring extra special care with complicated grafting & placement. Every procedure was fully explained with all possible options & outcomes, and Dr. Schell took the time to coordinate my care with my dentist & periodontist. I received detailed
Rebecca B.
Mar 23, 2016
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I came here to get my first two wisdom teeth extracted. During my consult, Dr. Schell seemed very knowledgeable and put me at ease, explaining everything in detail. That is the ONLY reason they get one star.
The day of the surgery I felt that everyone was in a rush. The minute it was over I didn't even have a chance to come to completely and they were already kicking me out of the office. They gave me a prescription and a little card with post care instructions and I was on my way.
Immediately after the numbness wore off I was in excruciating pain, I'm talking about level 10 pain
The day of the surgery I felt that everyone was in a rush. The minute it was over I didn't even have a chance to come to completely and they were already kicking me out of the office. They gave me a prescription and a little card with post care instructions and I was on my way.
Immediately after the numbness wore off I was in excruciating pain, I'm talking about level 10 pain
Kira C.
Jan 17, 2016
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If there were an option to give this place a negative star that's what it would deserve. The previous reviews must have been written by the staff or friends of them. My first consultation there was amazing. I explained my huge fear of dentists to them and how I had already had a horrible experience elsewhere getting 1 wisdom tooth out. They were so kind and I felt so relieved.
Fast forward to the day of the procedure. They were pretty nasty from the beginning and the second I got into the actual chair it took a drastic change. They were beyond rude and treated me like an inconvenience to
Fast forward to the day of the procedure. They were pretty nasty from the beginning and the second I got into the actual chair it took a drastic change. They were beyond rude and treated me like an inconvenience to
Michelle W.
Feb 06, 2015
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Dr Schell is a very nice doctor but I have been very frustrated with the rude admin lady there over a 10 dollars overcharge that she refused to adjust/refund. It's not much but her overcharge fails my FSA claims and creates a lot of painful work to reconcile difference between insurance, FSA account and dr office.
Be aware of this especially if you are trying to use your FSA account here.
Be aware of this especially if you are trying to use your FSA account here.
David S.
Jan 22, 2015
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I have no insurance and was referred to Dr. Schell for a tooth extraction.
I was treated like gold by him and his staff. They told me the price and I made an appointment.
Everything was explained very well. Staff took good care of me. Very efficient, no pain and he even gave me a call personally the next day to make sure I was doing fine.
I would reccommend him and go see him again in a minute.
My experience with him was everything I expect.
Thank You Dr. Schell.
I was treated like gold by him and his staff. They told me the price and I made an appointment.
Everything was explained very well. Staff took good care of me. Very efficient, no pain and he even gave me a call personally the next day to make sure I was doing fine.
I would reccommend him and go see him again in a minute.
My experience with him was everything I expect.
Thank You Dr. Schell.
Julia B.
Nov 02, 2013
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Excellent experience. I had a consultation for all four of my wisdom teeth to be extracted. The consultation was very informative and professional. I felt extremely comfortable making the arrangements to move forward with the procedure. My appointment was equally prefessional. The entire procedure was done under an hour. Although I am still recovering and slightly sore, I do not have any swelling or bruising.
I was given clear instructions after the procedure. And I was even called hours after the procedure to make sure I was doing well. For something that I have been dreading for so long it
I was given clear instructions after the procedure. And I was even called hours after the procedure to make sure I was doing well. For something that I have been dreading for so long it
Paula M.
Sep 09, 2013
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Dr. Schell and his staff were wonderful to work with. I just had all four of my impacted wisdom teeth removed and I couldn't have had a more smooth procedure. Dr. Schell made me feel very comfortable and answered any and all questions I had. My recovery is going smooth, and I thought it was very nice of him to call and check up on me a few hours after the procedure and then again today to see how I was doing.
I would definitely recommend Dr. Schell to anyone else in search of a good oral surgeon.
I would definitely recommend Dr. Schell to anyone else in search of a good oral surgeon.
Erik A.
Aug 22, 2013
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I needed to have two wisdom teeth removed and found Dr Schell through my insurance company (Aetna). He was a pleasant doctor who can be serious and professional but is also warm and accommodating. He was happy to answer my questions and meet any requests that I had.
I had my teeth removed this morning and am recovering well! Dr Schell and his staff were very pleasant to deal with and I am very happy with my experience with them.
Thanks, Dr Schell!
I had my teeth removed this morning and am recovering well! Dr Schell and his staff were very pleasant to deal with and I am very happy with my experience with them.
Thanks, Dr Schell!
David M.
Jun 13, 2013
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I had a bad experience with a wisdom tooth a couple of years ago and so was very, very apprehensive about having 2 taken out at once.
Thankfully I found Dr Shell. From consultation through to now 2 months after surgery I am very pleased with the level of service given and work done. His team made it very easy and the recovery period for having 2 out was less than my previous experience with just 1.
One tooth was expected to be a challenge, and it was, but I would never have known that by how I felt during and after the surgery.
Don't be put off by the other reviews. I found the staff very
Thankfully I found Dr Shell. From consultation through to now 2 months after surgery I am very pleased with the level of service given and work done. His team made it very easy and the recovery period for having 2 out was less than my previous experience with just 1.
One tooth was expected to be a challenge, and it was, but I would never have known that by how I felt during and after the surgery.
Don't be put off by the other reviews. I found the staff very
Mary Watson
Dec 29, 2012
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I can certainly recommend Dr. Schell as an excellent surgeon! -- he gets absolutely perfect marks. I faced an extraction I thought would be very difficult, but Dr. Schell has a calm supportive manner, took time to explain the process in detail, and that really helped. The surgery was painless, easy for me and very successful; the post-op recovery and healing could not have gone better. Dr. Schell called to check on me. His staff really made me feel comfortable and secure -- they are efficient and friendly.
Steve Fisher
Aug 08, 2012
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Dr. Schell is one of the most caring doctors I have seen both in the treatment I received and the follow op . He and his staff provided me with the most positive dental experience in my life. He carefully answered my questions that I had. His friendly and efficient was also great when you're nervous about a procedure. DR Schell removed my Wisdom teeth that was impacted inside the bones and very high to reach as my general dentist explained to me.
The experience with him was painless and the care and experience was none less than exceptional, I strongly recommend him for any oral surgery problem
The experience with him was painless and the care and experience was none less than exceptional, I strongly recommend him for any oral surgery problem
