How to Become an Associate Oral Surgeon (Grin and Win it!)

If you’ve always been intrigued by the human anatomy, particularly the mouth and jaw, or pondered about the steps to become an associate oral surgeon, you’ve landed at the right spot.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the SPECIFIC steps required to kick-start your career as an associate oral surgeon. We’ll discuss:

• The skills you need.
• The education and training necessary to reach your goal.
• How to secure a job as an associate oral surgeon.

So, whether you’re a novice in the medical field or an experienced professional looking to specialize, stay with us.

We’re about to unravel the roadmap to become an associate oral surgeon.

Let’s embark on this journey!

Steps to Become an Associate Oral Surgeon

 

Step 1: Complete an Undergraduate Education

To pursue a career as an Associate Oral Surgeon, you will need to begin with a bachelor’s degree.

Most dental schools do not require a specific major, but a strong foundation in the sciences is critical.

Coursework should include chemistry, physics, and biology.

Advanced biology courses such as microbiology or physiology can also be very helpful.

While in college, it is wise to gain some practical experience.

Consider volunteering or working part-time in a dental office or clinic.

This will give you a real-world understanding of the profession and could potentially help you secure strong letters of recommendation for dental school.

Another key aspect of your undergraduate education is to maintain a high-grade point average.

Dental schools are highly competitive, so you need to stand out acadically.

Additionally, you will need to prepare for and do well on the Dental Admission Test (DAT), which is a requirement for admission to dental school.

While an undergraduate degree is a critical first step, it is just the beginning.

The journey to becoming an Associate Oral Surgeon will involve a significant investment of time and effort in advanced education and training.

 

Step 2: Attend Dental School

After earning a Bachelor’s degree, the next step for an aspiring Associate Oral Surgeon is to attend a dental school.

Dental schools typically offer a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree.

These programs typically take four years to complete and combine classroom instruction with clinical experience.

In the first two years, students will learn about oral health, disease, and prevention through classroom and laboratory instruction.

They’ll take courses in areas like local anesthesia, pharmacology, and periodontology.

The last two years are primarily clinical practice where students work directly with patients under the supervision of licensed dentists.

They’ll gain hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating oral diseases and conditions.

Before you can attend dental school, you’ll have to pass the Dental Admission Test (DAT) administered by the American Dental Association.

This test evaluates your knowledge in areas such as natural sciences, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning.

Lastly, choosing a dental school accredited by the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation ensures the education received meets the national standard for dental education.

Keep in mind that admission to dental school is competitive, so it’s important to maintain a high GPA during your undergraduate studies, have strong DAT scores, and relevant experience in the dental field, which could be through internships or volunteer work.

 

Step 3: Pass the Dental Admission Test (DAT)

After you’ve completed your bachelor’s degree, the next step on your path to becoming an Associate Oral Surgeon is to take and pass the Dental Admission Test (DAT).

Administered by the American Dental Association, the DAT is a standard requirement for admission into dental school.

The DAT is a comprehensive exam that measures your ability to understand important scientific information and concepts.

The exam consists of four sections: Survey of the Natural Sciences, Perceptual Ability, Reading Comprehension, and Quantitative Reasoning.

To succeed in the DAT, it’s recommended to spend a substantial amount of time preparing.

You can use study guides, attend preparation courses, or use online resources to familiarize yourself with the type of questions that will be asked.

This preparation will help you to not only pass the test but to attain a competitive score that can increase your chances of being accepted into a desirable dental school.

Remember, you can retake the DAT if you’re not satisfied with your score.

However, you have to wait 90 days between attempts and you can only take the exam a total of three times without receiving special permission.

So, start your preparation early and aim to do your best on the first attempt.

 

Step 4: Obtain a Dental Degree (DDS or DMD)

If you are planning to pursue a career as an Associate Oral Surgeon, one of the key steps is to obtain a dental degree.

This could either be a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD).

Both degrees have similar curricula and prepare you for the same licensing examinations.

The dental degree program typically takes four years to complete.

The first two years usually involve classroom and laboratory instruction in dental and health sciences, such as anatomy, microbiology, pathology, and pharmacology.

The last two years are generally spent gaining practical, hands-on experience in a supervised clinical setting, where students learn to diagnose and treat dental problems in patients.

Upon completion of the dental degree, you would have gained knowledge and skills in areas such as oral surgery, prosthodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, and pediatric dentistry.

This forms a solid foundation for your future specialization in oral surgery.

Be sure to excel in your coursework, as oral surgery residency programs are highly competitive and consider academic performance as a crucial factor in admissions.

Remember, both DDS and DMD are equivalent and recognized by the American Dental Association.

The choice of degree largely depends on the dental school you attend.

Regardless of the degree, the next step towards becoming an Associate Oral Surgeon would be to pass your licensing examination and enter into a residency program.

 

Step 5: Gain Clinical Experience

After completing your degree in oral surgery, it is crucial to gain clinical experience.

As an aspiring Associate Oral Surgeon, hands-on training in a clinical setting will give you the practical skills and experiences necessary to succeed in this field.

This experience can often be obtained through a residency program that exposes you to different oral and maxillofacial surgeries and procedures.

During this stage, you will be treating patients under the supervision of experienced oral surgeons.

You will get a chance to handle complex cases, use advanced surgical instruments and techniques, and learn about patient care and management.

Clinical experience not only enhances your surgical skills but also develops your problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and decision-making capabilities.

Keep in mind that the more varied and comprehensive your clinical experience, the more prepared you will be to handle a wide range of cases when you begin independent practice as an Associate Oral Surgeon.

Additionally, clinical experience gives you the opportunity to build relationships within the medical community, which can be beneficial for future job prospects and professional growth.

 

Step 6: Pass National Board Dental Examinations (NBDE) Part I & II

The National Board Dental Examinations (NBDE) are a two-part examination that you must pass to become a licensed oral surgeon in the United States.

Part I of the NBDE covers the basic sciences such as anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, microbiology, pathology, and dental anatomy.

Part II of the NBDE focuses on clinical dental topics, including patient management, orthodontics, prosthodontics, oral surgery, and pain control.

These examinations are designed to assess your understanding and ability to apply important concepts in the study of dentistry.

It is therefore crucial that you dedicate sufficient time for thorough preparation.

Utilize study guides, prep courses, and practice exams to ensure you are adequately prepared.

You may also join study groups or find a mentor to guide you through the process.

Passing these exams is a crucial step in your journey to becoming an oral surgeon, as they are often prerequisites for entry into an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency program.

Therefore, make sure you are fully prepared before you sit for these tests to increase your chances of success.

Remember, achieving a good score in NBDE Part I & II not only opens the door to oral surgery residencies but also differentiates you in a competitive field.

This could be an important factor in your acceptance into a top-rated oral and maxillofacial surgery residency program.

 

Step 7: Enter an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Program

After completing your dental school, the next important step in becoming an Associate Oral Surgeon is to enter an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Program.

This is a crucial phase where you will gain surgical training and hands-on experience.

Residency programs typically last four to six years and involve rigorous training in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects of both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region.

During your residency, you will be exposed to a range of surgical procedures including tooth extractions, dental implant placement, bone grafting, corrective jaw surgery, facial trauma surgery, and pathological conditions such as oral cancer.

During this time, you will also gain valuable experience in managing patients with complex medical conditions.

This residency period is an opportunity to develop your surgical skills, gain a deeper understanding of the field, and work under the supervision of experienced oral surgeons.

In many programs, residents also earn a medical degree (MD), or a master’s degree in a related field, which may extend the length of the residency.

It’s important to research different programs and choose one that aligns with your career goals.

After completing the residency program, you will need to pass a certification exam to become board-certified and be recognized as a specialist in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

This certification is crucial to be eligible for most associate oral surgeon job roles.

 

Step 8: Obtain a State License to Practice Dentistry

After successfully completing your dental school and oral surgery residency program, the next crucial step in becoming an Associate Oral Surgeon is to get licensed by your state’s dental board.

This licensure is mandatory in all states to practice dentistry and oral surgery.

The licensure process typically involves passing the National Board Dental Examination, which is a comprehensive exam covering all aspects of general dentistry.

Following this, you must also pass a state-specific clinical examination.

Some states may also require you to clear a jurisprudence exam, which tests your understanding of the state’s dental laws and ethics.

After obtaining your license, it is essential to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field and maintain your license through continued education courses.

This not only helps you keep your license active but also equips you with the latest knowledge and skills in oral surgery.

Remember, licensing requirements may vary from state to state, so it’s crucial to check with your state’s dental board for precise information about all necessary exams and other requirements.

 

Step 9: Complete Board Certification

After completing your residency, your next step in becoming an Associate Oral Surgeon is to achieve board certification.

This is done through the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS).

The certification process involves both a written qualifying examination and an oral certification examination.

The written qualifying examination is designed to assess your knowledge and understanding of basic and clinical sciences related to oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Once you have passed this, you can then proceed to the oral certification examination.

This test is intended to evaluate your clinical judgment and your ability to make appropriate decisions regarding patient care.

After passing both exams, you become a Diplomate of the ABOMS, demonstrating your commitment to the highest standards of practice in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Achieving board certification not only validates your expertise in the field but also improves your professional standing, making you more attractive to potential employers and helping to build patient trust.

Remember, maintaining your board certification is an ongoing process.

You need to participate in the ABOMS Continuing Certification program, which requires ongoing education and periodic re-examination to ensure you remain up to date with the latest developments in the field.

 

Step 10: Gain Advanced Training or Fellowships (Optional)

While becoming an Associate Oral Surgeon doesn’t necessarily require additional training beyond residency, it is highly advisable and beneficial to pursue advanced training or fellowships in specialized areas of oral and maxillofacial surgery.

This can involve training in areas such as cosmetic facial surgery, craniofacial surgery, or oral cancer surgery.

Such fellowships, often lasting a year or two, provide you with a higher level of expertise and can significantly enhance your career opportunities.

During this time, you’ll be able to gain hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced surgeons and work on complex cases that require specialized skills.

You may also want to consider additional qualifications such as a board certification.

Getting board certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery can increase your employment prospects and reassure patients about your competence.

Remember that the field of oral surgery is constantly evolving, and being committed to lifelong learning and continuous professional development can help you stay at the forefront of your profession.

 

Step 11: Apply for Associate Oral Surgeon Positions

Once you have completed your surgical residency, obtained your necessary licenses, and have a few years of experience under your belt, you can begin applying for associate oral surgeon positions.

These positions typically allow you to work alongside a senior oral surgeon, gaining further practical experience and expertise.

Start by researching and identifying reputable dental practices or hospitals that are hiring associate oral surgeons.

These institutions can provide you with an environment conducive to your professional growth and development.

Craft a well-structured resume that highlights your academic accomplishments, surgical residency experience, and any specialized skills or areas of interest relevant to oral surgery.

Your cover letter should be personalized for each application, outlining why you are interested in the specific role and how your skills and experience make you a good fit.

Consider leveraging your professional network, including colleagues from your surgical residency, for potential job leads and references.

Networking can often lead to job opportunities that may not be publicly advertised.

Prepare for interviews by reviewing common oral surgery procedures and staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and research.

Be ready to discuss your surgical experiences, patient management skills, and your approach to handling complex cases.

Finally, remember to follow up on your applications and interviews with a thank you note to show your continued interest and professionalism.

This could potentially set you apart from other candidates.

 

Step 12: Continue Education and Maintain Board Certification

As an Associate Oral Surgeon, it is important that you continue your education even after you start practicing.

This is not only to keep up with the latest research and advancements in oral surgery but also to maintain your board certification.

Most oral surgeons are certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS).

To maintain this certification, you are required to participate in a recertification process every ten years.

This involves reviewing and studying the latest advancements in oral and maxillofacial surgery, passing an examination, and earning continuing education credits.

The process of continuous learning can be accomplished through attending professional conferences, participating in workshops and seminars, subscribing to professional journals, and enrolling in advanced courses.

This continued education not only keeps you updated on the latest techniques and tools but also helps to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.

You may also consider further specialization within oral surgery.

This could involve focusing on a particular area such as craniofacial surgery, cosmetic facial surgery, or pediatric oral surgery.

Specializing can provide you with a unique set of skills and knowledge, and make you more desirable to potential employers or patients.

Remember, being an oral surgeon is a lifelong learning process.

Your commitment to continuous education is what keeps you competent and allows you to provide the best possible care to your patients.

 

Step 13: Join Professional Organizations

Joining professional organizations is a vital step in pursuing a career as an Associate Oral Surgeon.

These organizations provide a platform to interact with other professionals in your field, gain industry insights, attend educational programs, and stay up-to-date with the latest research and developments in oral surgery.

One such organization is the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS).

Membership in the AAOMS can provide you with opportunities for continuing education, networking, and leadership roles within the organization.

In addition, they provide resources to assist in managing your practice and upholding the highest patient care standards.

Another valuable organization is the International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (IAOMS).

They offer international networking opportunities and host an international conference where you can learn about the latest global trends and advancements in oral surgery.

Joining these organizations not only helps you to build a professional network but also strengthens your credentials and demonstrates your commitment to the field of oral surgery.

This can be of significant advantage when looking for job opportunities or seeking promotions in the future.

 

Step 14: Network with Other Dental Professionals

As you continue to grow in your career as an Associate Oral Surgeon, networking with other dental professionals becomes crucial.

This can help you stay abreast of the latest trends and advancements in the field of oral surgery, in addition to providing you with opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.

You can build your network by attending dental conferences, seminars, and workshops.

These events often have speakers who are leaders in the field, and provide a platform for discussion, learning, and networking.

Participating in these events not only gives you a chance to meet other dental professionals but also allows you to showcase your expertise and knowledge.

Consider joining professional dental associations, such as the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), and local dental societies.

These organizations provide resources for continuing education, opportunities for professional networking, and platforms to share research and clinical experiences.

You can also consider collaborating with other dental professionals on research projects or clinical trials.

This not only broadens your professional network but also enhances your resume and credentials in the field of oral surgery.

Remember, networking is not just about taking, it’s also about giving.

Be willing to share your knowledge, expertise, and experiences with others.

This will not only help you build strong professional relationships but will also contribute to the overall growth of the profession.

 

Step 15: Stay Updated on the Latest Oral Surgery Techniques and Technology

As an Associate Oral Surgeon, it is crucial to be informed about the latest advancements in oral surgery techniques, medical technologies, and materials.

The field of oral surgery is continually advancing and changing, so staying up-to-date with the latest research and trends allows you to provide the best possible care to your patients.

You can stay current by attending relevant professional workshops, seminars, and conferences.

These gatherings are often an opportunity to learn about the latest procedures, equipment, and research findings directly from industry leaders.

Also, they allow you to network with other oral surgeons and professionals in the dental field.

Subscribing to professional dental and oral surgery journals is another way to keep abreast with the latest innovations in your field.

These publications often feature articles on cutting-edge techniques, case studies, and new research findings.

Lastly, consider joining professional organizations such as the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS).

Membership in such organizations often provides access to a wealth of resources such as newsletters, webinars, continuing education courses, and more.

By staying updated, you will enhance your professional knowledge, skills, and abilities, ensuring you are providing the most current and effective care for your patients.

 

Associate Oral Surgeon Roles and Responsibilities

Associate Oral Surgeons are specialized dentists who diagnose and treat conditions, injuries, and diseases of the oral cavity, jaw, and face.

They work under the guidance of a lead oral surgeon and assist in surgical procedures.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

 

Patient Evaluation

• Conduct initial patient screenings and consultations.
• Assess oral health conditions and diagnose diseases.
• Determine suitability of patients for oral surgery.

 

Surgical Procedures

• Perform oral and maxillofacial surgeries under the supervision of a lead surgeon.
• Assist in complex surgical procedures such as corrective jaw surgeries, dental implant placement, and tooth extractions.
• Administer anesthesia or sedatives to patients during surgical procedures.

 

Patient Care

• Provide pre-operative and post-operative care instructions to patients.
• Monitor patient recovery and healing after surgeries.
• Address patient concerns and questions regarding surgery and recovery.

 

Record Keeping

• Document patient history, diagnoses, treatments, and follow-up care.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records in compliance with privacy regulations.

 

Collaboration

• Collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals including dentists, nurses, and anesthesiologists.
• Participate in multidisciplinary case conferences and team meetings.

 

Continuing Education

• Stay updated with latest advancements in oral and maxillofacial surgery through continuing education.
• Attend professional development workshops, seminars, and conferences.

 

Emergency Care

• Provide emergency care for oral injuries and infections.
• Participate in on-call rotations for after-hours emergency cases.

 

Patient Education

• Educate patients on oral health, preventive care, and oral hygiene practices.
• Inform patients about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of proposed treatments.

 

Research

• Participate in clinical research studies related to oral and maxillofacial surgery.
• Contribute to the development of new surgical techniques and treatments.

 

Professionalism

• Uphold medical ethics and patient confidentiality rules at all times.
• Practice with a high level of professionalism and patient care.

 

What Does an Associate Oral Surgeon Do?

An Associate Oral Surgeon is an integral part of a team that provides surgical dental care to patients.

They typically work under the supervision of a senior oral surgeon in dental clinics, hospitals, or private practices.

The primary responsibility of an Associate Oral Surgeon is to diagnose and treat oral diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and jaws.

They conduct patient examinations, interpret x-rays and diagnostic tests, and perform various surgical procedures like tooth extractions, impacted teeth removal, and corrective surgeries for cleft lip or palate.

They also provide treatments for oral and maxillofacial issues, such as oral cancer, TMJ disorders, and sleep apnea.

In some cases, they may perform cosmetic surgeries to improve facial appearance.

Associate Oral Surgeons work closely with other dental professionals, like orthodontists and prosthodontists, to plan comprehensive treatment plans for their patients.

In addition to performing surgeries, they also administer anesthesia, write prescriptions for medications, and provide postoperative instructions to patients.

Moreover, they may also be involved in educating patients about oral health care and disease prevention.

They keep themselves updated with the latest advancements in oral surgical procedures to ensure the best possible care for their patients.

Despite working under supervision, they are expected to be capable of making independent decisions during emergencies, indicating the high level of expertise and responsibility associated with this role.

 

Essential Associate Oral Surgeon Skills

• Surgical Skills: As an oral surgeon, the ability to perform a variety of surgical procedures with precision and care is crucial. This includes extractions, implants, and corrective surgeries.
• Diagnostic Skills: Oral surgeons need to accurately diagnose patient conditions and determine the best treatment plan. This requires a solid understanding of oral and maxillofacial pathologies.
• Anatomy Knowledge: A deep understanding of oral and maxillofacial anatomy is essential. This includes knowledge of the teeth, jaws, nerves, muscles, and other structures in the face and neck region.
• Communication: Oral surgeons need to communicate effectively with patients, explaining procedures and treatment plans in a manner that alleviates concerns and establishes trust. They also need to collaborate with other dental and healthcare professionals.
• Dexterity: Precise manual skills are vital for performing surgical procedures, manipulating dental instruments, and performing delicate tasks.
• Pain Management: Understanding the principles of anesthesia and pain management is critical. This includes administering local and general anesthesia, and managing post-operative pain.
• Problem-solving: Oral surgeons need to be able to think critically and solve complex problems related to patient care. This could involve developing creative solutions to challenging surgical scenarios.
• Emergency Management: The ability to respond effectively to medical emergencies, including allergic reactions, cardiac events, and respiratory distress, is crucial.
• Patience and Composure: Oral surgeons often deal with anxious patients and need to maintain composure and patience. They also need to display these traits during lengthy and complex surgical procedures.
• Continual Learning: The field of oral surgery is continually evolving. Surgeons need to stay updated on the latest research, techniques, and technology through continuing education and professional development.
• Detail-Oriented: Attention to detail is essential in diagnosing conditions and performing surgeries. A minor oversight can lead to significant complications.
• Interpersonal Skills: Good interpersonal skills help establish rapport with patients and foster a collaborative environment with colleagues and staff.
• Teamwork: Working effectively within multidisciplinary healthcare teams is essential. This can include coordinating with dental hygienists, anesthesiologists, and other medical specialists.
• Ethics: Upholding the highest ethical standards, respecting patient confidentiality, and maintaining professionalism at all times is paramount.
• Time Management: Oral surgeons often have packed schedules and need to manage their time efficiently to ensure all patients receive quality care.

 

Associate Oral Surgeon Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Dental Student

The journey to becoming an Associate Oral Surgeon begins as a Dental Student in a dental school, where you lay the foundation of your career.

At this stage, you are mostly learning theoretical knowledge, understanding the basics of oral health, and practicing dental procedures under supervision.

Here are some tips for this stage:

1. Learn Continuously: Stay updated with the latest research and innovations in dental science.
2. Hands-on Practice: Use your practical sessions to familiarize yourself with dental procedures.
3. Seek Mentorship: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek guidance from your professors and senior dentists.

 

The Ascent: Dental Resident

After graduating from dental school, you’ll transition to a Dental Resident in an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) program.

You’ll gain in-depth knowledge of oral surgery procedures, handle more complex cases, and work alongside experienced surgeons.

To thrive in this stage:

1. Hands-on Experience: Gain as much hands-on experience as possible in performing a variety of oral surgeries.
2. Collaboration: Work effectively with other medical professionals and learn to be a part of a healthcare team.
3. Professionalism: Uphold professional ethics and maintain a compassionate approach towards patients.

 

Reaching New Heights: Board Certified Oral Surgeon

Upon completion of residency and passing the board examination, you become a Board Certified Oral Surgeon.

You’re now recognized for your skills and expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

You’ll take on more complicated surgical procedures and handle critical cases.

To excel in this role:

1. Mentorship: Share your knowledge and help dental students and residents grow.
2. Continued Education: Keep up-to-date with medical advancements and continue to learn new surgical techniques.
3. Leadership: Lead surgical teams and inspire others with your work ethic and surgical skills.

 

Beyond the Horizon: Associate Oral Surgeon

As your career progresses, you may become an Associate Oral Surgeon in a dental practice.

This role involves handling a broad spectrum of oral and maxillofacial surgeries, managing complex cases, and contributing towards research and academics.

Here’s what to focus on:

1. Surgical Expertise: Continue to hone your surgical skills and expertise.
2. Research and Academics: Contribute towards research and teaching in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
3. Management Skills: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to guide your team effectively.

 

Pinnacle of Success: Chief Oral Surgeon or Department Head

Reaching the role of a Chief Oral Surgeon or a Department Head signifies reaching the pinnacle of success in the field of oral surgery.

In these roles, you’ll be responsible for leading a team of surgeons, making critical decisions, and shaping the overall surgical strategy of your department or clinic.

 

Associate Oral Surgeon Salary

Entry-Level Associate Oral Surgeon

• Median Salary: $200,000 – $220,000 per year
• Entry-level associate oral surgeons typically have 0-2 years of experience post-residency, and hold a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree. They are required to have a specialty in oral surgery. They often work under the supervision of more experienced surgeons.

 

Mid-Level Associate Oral Surgeon

• Median Salary: $220,000 – $260,000 per year
• Mid-level associate oral surgeons have 2-5 years of experience and take on more complex oral and maxillofacial surgery cases. They may also mentor junior associates or dental students.

 

Senior Associate Oral Surgeon

• Median Salary: $260,000 – $320,000 per year
• Senior associate oral surgeons possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading complex surgical procedures, making critical patient care decisions, and mentoring junior associates. They may also contribute to oral surgery research and education.

 

Lead Oral Surgeon / Oral Surgery Department Head

• Median Salary: $320,000 – $380,000+ per year
• These roles come with significant experience and often involve leadership within a dental practice or hospital, overseeing other oral surgeons, making key decisions regarding patient care and operational efficiency, and contributing to the field through research and teaching.

 

Chief Oral Surgeon / Director of Oral Surgery

• Median Salary: $380,000 – $440,000+ per year
• These high-level positions require extensive experience and deep surgical expertise. They often involve setting strategies for an entire oral surgery department or practice, leading research initiatives, and shaping policy and standards in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

 

Associate Oral Surgeon Work Environment

Associate Oral Surgeons primarily work in dental practices or dental hospitals, but they may also be employed in universities or research facilities.

Their work environment is highly sterilized and organized due to the nature of their job which involves surgical procedures.

They often work in teams with other dental professionals to provide comprehensive oral care to patients.

The schedule of an Associate Oral Surgeon can be demanding, requiring them to work long hours and be on-call for emergencies.

In some cases, they may need to travel between different dental practices or hospitals.

As they gain experience and build a reputation, Associate Oral Surgeons may have the opportunity to become partners in a dental practice or even open their own dental surgery clinics.

 

FAQs About Becoming an Associate Oral Surgeon

What is needed to become an associate oral surgeon?

To become an associate oral surgeon, you typically need to first obtain a bachelor’s degree followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree from an accredited dental school, which typically takes four years.

Afterward, you must complete an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency program, which can range from four to six years.

Additionally, licensure is required in all states, which involves passing a written and practical exam.

Key skills include strong hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, good physical stamina, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

 

How long does it take to become an associate oral surgeon?

The time it takes to become an associate oral surgeon can vary, but it typically takes about 12 to 14 years of education and training.

This includes four years for a bachelor’s degree, four years of dental school, and four to six years of residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

After completion of your residency, you may choose to pursue board certification, which can take an additional year or two.

 

Can I become an associate oral surgeon without a medical degree?

No, it is not possible to become an associate oral surgeon without a medical degree.

Oral surgery is a specialized field of medicine that requires extensive education and training, including a DDS or DMD degree from an accredited dental school and a residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Without this formal education and training, you would not have the necessary knowledge or skills to safely and effectively perform oral surgery.

 

Is being an associate oral surgeon a stressful job?

Being an associate oral surgeon can be stressful at times, as it often involves dealing with complex medical cases, performing surgery, and handling emergency situations.

It can also involve long hours and being on call.

However, many oral surgeons find the job to be extremely rewarding, as they are able to help patients improve their oral health and quality of life.

Coping strategies, such as maintaining a healthy work-life balance and getting regular exercise, can help manage stress.

 

What are the prospects for associate oral surgeons in the next decade?

The prospects for associate oral surgeons are expected to be good in the next decade.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of dentists, including oral surgeons, will grow faster than the average for all occupations.

This growth will be driven by an aging population that is retaining more of their natural teeth, as well as increased research linking oral health to general health.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Setting off on a mission to become an associate oral surgeon may not be a walk in the park, but the rewards are undeniable.

With a solid foundation of knowledge, clinical skills, relentless determination, and the right educational credentials, you’re well on your way to making a substantial difference in the field of oral health care.

Remember, the road may be rigorous, but the potential for growth and development is endless. Your expertise could pave the way for innovative procedures and treatments that revolutionize how we perceive oral health and surgery.

So, take that initial stride. Immerse yourself in continuing education. Connect with experienced professionals. And above all, never stop honing your surgical skills.

Because the world is waiting for the profound impact you can make.

And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on beginning or progressing your career as an associate oral surgeon, take a look at our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to provide customized advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.

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