How to Become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon (Faces of Change!)
If you’ve ever envisioned performing complex surgeries that transform people’s lives or pondered about the journey to become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, you’ve landed at the right spot.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps required for kickstarting your career as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The education that will pave your path.
- How to secure a position as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.
So, whether you’re a novice in the medical field or a seasoned healthcare professional aiming to specialize, keep reading.
We’re about to unfold the roadmap to becoming an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.
Let’s embark on this journey!
Steps to Become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
Step 1: Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Before you embark on the journey of becoming an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, it is crucial to understand the role and its responsibilities.
An Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon is a specialist who treats diseases, injuries, and defects in the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region.
This includes procedures such as removing impacted teeth, administering anesthesia, treating traumatic injuries, correcting facial deformities, and diagnosing and treating oral cancers.
The surgeon can also perform cosmetic procedures on the face, neck, and jaws.
This role requires a high degree of precision, knowledge, and expertise.
It involves dealing with complex issues where a slight mistake can lead to serious consequences.
Therefore, it’s essential to understand that this profession demands constant learning, immense patience, and excellent interpersonal skills.
It is equally important to note that this profession may involve long and irregular working hours, often dealing with emergencies.
Therefore, be prepared to commit to a demanding yet rewarding career.
Understanding these aspects will help you determine whether you are ready for such a role and whether it aligns with your career objectives.
Step 2: Pursue Higher Secondary Education with Emphasis on Science
To become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, the journey begins in high school.
Your focus should be on pursuing a higher secondary education with an emphasis on science subjects.
This is crucial as it lays the foundation for the medical knowledge you will acquire later on.
Pay particular attention to biology, chemistry, and physics as these will provide the necessary knowledge for understanding human anatomy, diseases, and the principles of surgery.
Additionally, securing good grades in these science subjects will make you a competitive candidate when you apply for a pre-medical or a direct medical program at the undergraduate level.
If your school offers advanced placement courses in these subjects, consider taking them to further deepen your scientific knowledge and show your commitment to the medical field.
Consider also participating in extracurricular activities that demonstrate your leadership skills, compassion, and dedication to healthcare.
Volunteering at local hospitals, clinics, or healthcare-related NGOs can provide practical exposure to the medical field and help you understand if this career path is right for you.
To become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, you must first complete an undergraduate degree.
A common choice for aspiring surgeons is a Pre-Dental program, but other relevant fields such as Biology, Chemistry, or Anatomy can also be suitable.
These degrees should provide you with a foundational knowledge of science and health, which will be necessary for your future studies.
During your undergraduate years, you should focus on maintaining a high GPA, as dental schools are very competitive.
It can also be beneficial to gain some experience in a dental or healthcare setting, either through internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs.
This will not only give you practical experience, but also help you confirm that this is the right career path for you.
Additionally, you should start preparing for the Dental Admission Test (DAT) which is required for admission to dental school.
This test assesses your academic capacity and scientific knowledge, so it’s important to prepare thoroughly.
Keep in mind that becoming an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon is a long-term commitment.
After your undergraduate degree, you’ll need to complete dental school, a residency program, and potentially further specialization.
Therefore, it’s crucial to be certain about your career choice early on and take the necessary steps to achieve your goal.
Step 4: Take the Dental Admission Test (DAT)
After you have earned your bachelor’s degree, the next step on your journey to become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon is to take the Dental Admission Test (DAT).
This standardized exam is designed to assess your understanding of natural sciences, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning skills.
To prepare for the DAT, you can utilize several study materials, such as books, online resources, and prep courses.
These materials help cover the variety of topics you’ll encounter on the exam, including biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and perceptual ability tests.
The exam scores are a critical aspect of your dental school application.
A high score on the DAT can significantly improve your chances of admission to competitive dental school programs.
After passing the DAT, you can apply for dental school, which is the next step towards becoming an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Remember, it’s crucial to prepare thoroughly for this exam as it plays a significant role in your dental career pathway.
Step 5: Earn a Doctoral Degree in Dental Medicine or Dental Surgery
After completing your undergraduate degree, the next step to becoming an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is earning a doctoral degree in either dental medicine (DMD) or dental surgery (DDS).
This usually takes four years and includes both classroom instruction and clinical rotations.
In the first two years, you will primarily be learning about dental anatomy, oral pathology, and pharmacology through lectures and laboratory sessions.
The latter two years are usually dedicated to clinical practice, where you gain hands-on experience treating patients under the supervision of licensed dentists.
Here, you will develop your skills in oral diagnosis and treatment planning, restorative dentistry, periodontics, pedodontics, orthodontics, oral surgery, and prosthodontics.
While the DDS and DMD degrees are generally equivalent, each school may have slight differences in curriculum.
It is important to research prospective dental schools carefully to ensure their program aligns with your career goals.
After successfully completing your DMD or DDS, you will then need to obtain licensure to practice dentistry in your state.
Step 6: Acquire State Licensure to Practice Dentistry
In order to practice as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, you must first obtain a license to practice dentistry.
This is usually done by passing the National Board Dental Examinations, which are comprehensive written and clinical exams.
After successfully passing these exams, you can apply for your license from the state dental board where you plan to practice.
Each state may have its own additional requirements, such as jurisprudence exams or child abuse recognition training, so it’s essential to check with the specific state dental board to ensure you meet all requirements.
Remember that maintaining licensure often involves completing continuing education courses throughout your career.
Having a license to practice general dentistry is a crucial step, as it forms the base on which you will build your specialized surgical skills.
This licensure also validates your foundational knowledge in oral health and treatment, which is vital for the more complex procedures performed as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.
Step 7: Complete a Residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Completing a residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is a crucial step in becoming an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.
This is an intensive training program that usually lasts for 4 to 6 years.
During this period, you will be heavily involved in all aspects of patient care, gaining hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating various oral and maxillofacial conditions.
Throughout your residency, you will be exposed to a wide range of cases from simple tooth extractions to complex facial reconstructions.
You will also gain experience in handling emergency situations, providing postoperative care, and performing corrective surgeries for birth defects, trauma, or diseases.
Furthermore, some residency programs may offer opportunities to pursue additional training in related fields such as anesthesiology or general surgery.
This can provide a broader perspective and make you more competent in dealing with comprehensive cases.
Lastly, during your residency, you will be expected to conduct research and possibly publish in scientific journals.
This not only contributes to the field but also sharpens your analytical skills and keeps you updated on the latest advancements in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Remember, this is an intensive period of your training, requiring commitment, patience, and resilience.
The skills and experiences you gain during this time are invaluable in preparing you for your future role as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.
Step 8: Obtain Board Certification from the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
After completing your residency, the next step is obtaining your Board Certification from the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS).
Board certification is an extra step that some surgeons opt to take to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field.
This voluntary certification is recognized by the American Dental Association and requires both a written and oral examination.
The written qualifying examination is a comprehensive evaluation that assesses your knowledge of basic science and clinical concepts relevant to the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery.
The oral certifying examination is a series of structured interviews where you will need to apply your knowledge and demonstrate your clinical judgement and decision-making skills.
Maintaining your certification is also essential and requires ongoing learning and professional development.
This ensures you are up to date with the latest techniques, research, and advancements in the field.
It also serves to instill confidence in patients about the surgeon’s competence and dedication to the profession.
It’s crucial to note that the certification is valid for ten years, after which recertification is necessary.
Remember, obtaining board certification is not a legal requirement to practice as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, but it is highly recognized and respected within the profession and can open up additional opportunities for career advancement.
Step 9: Pursue Fellowship for Subspecialization (Optional)
After completing residency, some Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons choose to further refine their surgical skills by pursuing a fellowship for subspecialization.
Fellowships offer advanced training in specific areas of maxillofacial surgery, such as oral and facial reconstruction, cosmetic facial surgery, cranio-maxillofacial trauma, head and neck oncology, and microvascular reconstruction.
The duration of the fellowship can range from one to two years depending on the program and the surgeon’s personal goals.
It includes a combination of clinical training, research, and potentially teaching responsibilities.
During a fellowship, surgeons have the opportunity to work closely with experienced surgeons who serve as mentors, gaining in-depth knowledge and expertise in their chosen subspecialty.
The fellowship also allows surgeons to gain more hands-on surgical experience in a focused area, beyond the scope of their general residency training.
Fellowship training is optional, but those who choose this path often find it beneficial for pursuing positions in academic medicine, research, or specialized clinical practice.
It can also provide a competitive edge when seeking employment in high-demand surgical fields.
Remember, pursuing a fellowship requires commitment and dedication, but it provides invaluable experience and knowledge that can greatly enhance your career as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.
Step 10: Stay Updated with Continuing Education
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is a dynamic field with constant advancements in surgical techniques, tools, and medical research.
Hence, it is vital that practitioners continuously update their knowledge and skills to provide the best possible care to their patients.
Continuing education plays a crucial role in this regard.
Continuing education can be pursued in various ways.
You can attend workshops, seminars, or conferences that focus on the latest developments in the field.
These platforms not only provide an opportunity to learn about recent advancements, but also allow for networking with other professionals in the field.
Additionally, many professional organizations like the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons offer continuing education courses, either in-person or online.
These courses are designed to provide up-to-date information on a wide variety of topics, ranging from advances in surgical techniques to updates on medication use and patient care.
Another important aspect of continuing education is reading scientific literature.
Regularly reading scientific journals, case studies, and research articles can help you stay updated with the latest research and findings in the field of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Remember, continuing education is not only about improving your skills and knowledge, but it’s also about maintaining your licensure.
Most states require a specific number of continuing education hours for license renewal.
Hence, make sure to fulfill these requirements to keep your practice active and thriving.
Step 11: Join Professional Organizations and Networks
As an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, it’s important to join professional organizations to further develop your career.
Such organizations can provide access to continuing education opportunities, industry events, and networking platforms that can help you stay updated with the latest advancements in your field.
The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) is a prominent organization you can consider.
Joining such organizations can also help you connect with peers and industry veterans, potentially opening doors to more job opportunities, partnerships, or research collaborations.
Participating in these professional networks allows you to exchange ideas, experiences, and best practices with other dental professionals, which can significantly enhance your skills and expertise.
Don’t limit yourself to national organizations; there are also international societies that can broaden your perspective and experience.
Additionally, many of these organizations have resources for job seekers, offering job boards or recruitment services exclusive to their members.
This can prove advantageous when looking to advance or change your career.
Remember, professional growth and learning are lifelong processes in the medical field, and these organizations can aid significantly in your journey as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Step 12: Look for Employment and Build Experience
Once you have completed your residency and received your board certification, the next step is to seek employment.
You might consider looking for opportunities in hospitals, dental practices, surgery centers, or even start your private practice.
Some oral and maxillofacial surgeons also pursue academic careers at universities where they can engage in teaching and research.
Your first few years as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon will be a crucial time to build your professional experience.
Make sure to seek out opportunities that allow you to perform a variety of procedures and help a diverse patient population.
This will enable you to gain a broad scope of experience and hone your surgical skills.
Furthermore, it’s essential to continue learning and stay updated with the latest surgical techniques and advancements in the field.
Attending seminars, workshops, and conferences can provide you with new insights and knowledge.
You may also consider joining professional organizations, which offer networking opportunities and additional resources for continuing education.
As you build your experience, reputation, and patient network, you can explore more specialized areas within oral and maxillofacial surgery, such as reconstructive surgery, cosmetic facial surgery, or surgery for sleep apnea.
This specialization can open more career opportunities and potential for higher income.
Step 13: Develop Interpersonal Skills and Bedside Manner
Interpersonal skills and bedside manner are highly important for an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.
Communication skills, empathy, patience, and a professional approach to sensitive situations can make a significant difference in the patient’s experience.
As an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, you will need to have conversations with patients and their families that may be difficult or distressing.
You will need to explain complex medical information in a way that’s easy for non-medical professionals to understand, and be able to provide comfort and reassurance in stressful situations.
Empathy is crucial.
Understanding a patient’s fears, anxieties, and emotional state can help you provide better care.
It’s important to make the patient feel seen, heard, and understood.
You will also need patience, as some procedures may be long and complicated, or you may have to deal with patients who are anxious or uncooperative.
To develop these skills, consider workshops, courses, or training focused on communication skills and empathic patient care.
Some medical schools offer these as part of their curriculum, but they may also be available independently.
Furthermore, you could look for opportunities to practice these skills, such as volunteering at a hospital or clinic, or participating in role-playing exercises.
Remember, developing excellent bedside manner takes time and practice, and is an ongoing process throughout your medical career.
Step 14: Maintain Professionalism and Ethical Standards
As an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, upholding professionalism and ethical standards is an important step in your career.
This involves treating each patient with respect and dignity, maintaining patient confidentiality and providing a high standard of care.
You should always act in the best interest of your patients and ensure that your decisions and actions are guided by medical ethics.
This includes obtaining informed consent from patients before any procedures, ensuring the patient understands their treatment options and respecting their decision-making autonomy.
Additionally, you must stay updated with the latest advancements in your field and incorporate them into your practice.
This includes continuous professional development and participating in relevant seminars, workshops, and conferences.
You should also maintain good relationships with your colleagues and other healthcare professionals, as teamwork is often crucial in healthcare settings.
This involves respectful communication, collaboration, and mutual respect.
Remember, your behavior and attitude can significantly impact your patients’ trust and confidence in your abilities as a surgeon, so always uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics.
Step 15: Consider an Academic or Research Career (Optional)
After gaining experience and expertise in your field, you may consider transitioning into an academic or research career in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
This could entail teaching aspiring surgeons at a medical school or conducting research in this specialty to advance knowledge and treatment methods in the field.
If you choose to follow an academic career path, you would be responsible for educating the next generation of oral and maxillofacial surgeons, sharing your skills, knowledge, and experiences.
This could be in the form of giving lectures, supervising clinical sessions, or guiding students through their residency program.
Alternatively, a research-oriented career would involve investigating new surgical techniques, studying diseases and conditions related to the oral and maxillofacial region, or developing new medical devices or materials.
Such research could potentially revolutionize the field and improve patient outcomes.
To pursue a career in academia or research, it might be beneficial to earn additional qualifications such as a Doctor of Medical Science or Ph.D. in a related field.
These additional credentials could equip you with skills necessary for teaching and conducting research, as well as enhance your credibility and recognition in the field.
Remember, this step is optional and depends entirely on your career goals and interests.
It could be a rewarding path for those who are passionate about education and research, alongside clinical practice.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Roles and Responsibilities
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons specialize in treating many diseases, injuries and defects in the head, neck, face, jaws and the hard and soft tissues of the oral (mouth) and maxillofacial (jaws and face) region.
They are experts in the complex and delicate work of treating and repairing these areas.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Surgery
- Perform surgeries on the oral and maxillofacial areas to treat diseases, injuries, or defects.
- Conduct corrective surgeries to fix improper bites or to improve patient appearance.
- Perform surgeries to remove impacted teeth and benign tumors of the mouth and face.
Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
- Diagnose oral and maxillofacial diseases using various diagnostic tools.
- Develop treatment plans for patients after diagnosing the problem.
- Provide consultation to patients explaining the surgical process and expected recovery.
Pain Management
- Administer general or local anesthetics to patients to eliminate pain during procedures.
- Manage pain post-surgery through appropriate prescription of medication.
Emergency Care
- Provide immediate care in emergency situations such as facial bone fractures.
- Perform emergency surgeries to save patient’s life or improve patient’s condition.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Collaborate with other professionals such as orthodontists, restorative dentists and other medical professionals.
- Work with anesthetists, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists in planning and executing complex treatments.
Documentation
- Maintain accurate records of diagnoses, treatment plans, and surgical procedures conducted.
- Keep track of patient progress post-surgery and make necessary updates in the records.
Research
- Stay updated with latest research and advancements in oral and maxillofacial surgeries.
- Participate in research to develop new surgical techniques and improve existing ones.
Teaching and Mentoring
- Teach and mentor dental students and surgical residents.
- Conduct seminars and workshops to share knowledge and skills.
Continuing Education
- Continuously learn and update knowledge of the latest techniques and technologies in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
- Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops to keep up with the latest trends in the field.
What Does an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Do?
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are specialized surgeons who diagnose and treat diseases, injuries, and defects in the hard and soft tissues of the mouth, jaw, and face region.
They perform a variety of surgeries that range from corrective jaw surgery, tooth extractions, and dental implant surgery, to more complex procedures such as treating oral cancer, repairing facial trauma, or performing reconstructive surgery.
Their responsibilities also include administering general and local anesthetics, providing emergency treatment, and performing comprehensive patient assessments.
These surgeons work closely with other dental specialists, physicians, and healthcare professionals to provide an integrated approach to patient care.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are also involved in the diagnosis and treatment of facial pain disorders, including temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
In addition to their surgical duties, they may also conduct research, teach surgical skills to other medical professionals, and provide consultation to colleagues on specific oral and maxillofacial conditions.
They are required to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field, ensuring that their patients receive the most effective and current treatment options.
Essential Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Skills
- Medical Knowledge: An Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon needs to have an extensive understanding of oral and facial anatomy, general medicine, and diseases. They must also be familiar with procedures used to treat conditions affecting the mouth, jaws, face, and neck.
- Surgical Skills: The ability to perform complex surgical procedures is crucial. This includes proficiency in various surgical techniques, understanding how to use surgical instruments, and maintaining a steady hand.
- Anesthesia: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons need knowledge of anesthetics and how to administer them safely to patients. They must understand the potential risks and side effects associated with different types of anesthesia.
- Diagnosis: They must have the ability to accurately diagnose conditions affecting the oral and maxillofacial regions. This involves interpreting medical images and conducting physical examinations.
- Critical Thinking: Surgeons must be able to quickly assess complex situations and make informed decisions under pressure. This is especially important during emergency situations or when complications arise during surgery.
- Communication: Clear and empathetic communication is vital, as surgeons often need to explain complex medical conditions and procedures to patients and their families. They also need to work effectively with a team of healthcare professionals.
- Patience and Endurance: Surgeries can often be lengthy and require a high level of concentration. Surgeons need to maintain their focus and patience during these periods.
- Attention to Detail: Precision is key in surgery. Surgeons must pay close attention to detail to ensure procedures are carried out accurately and complications are avoided.
- Leadership: Surgeons often lead a surgical team, so they need to have strong leadership skills. They must be able to manage a team, delegate tasks and make important decisions.
- Problem-solving: The ability to identify and resolve problems is essential. Surgeons often need to think on their feet and come up with solutions to unexpected issues that may arise during surgery.
- Interpersonal Skills: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons need to build rapport with patients, be understanding of their fears and anxieties, and provide reassurance and support.
- Continual Learning: The field of oral and maxillofacial surgery is continually evolving, so surgeons need to be committed to ongoing learning and professional development.
- Ethics: Surgeons must adhere to professional medical ethics, ensuring patient confidentiality, informed consent, and respect for patient autonomy.
- Teamwork: Collaboration with other healthcare providers, such as general dentists, orthodontists, radiologists, and anesthesiologists, is essential for comprehensive patient care.
- Resilience: The job can be highly demanding and stressful. Surgeons need resilience to cope with long hours, high levels of responsibility, and the emotional impact of dealing with serious conditions.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Dental Student
Your journey to becoming an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon begins with earning a Bachelor’s degree followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD).
During dental school, you gain foundational knowledge and clinical experience in general dentistry.
Here are some tips for success in this stage:
- Academic Excellence: Strive for high grades to secure your position in a competitive residency program.
- Practical Experience: Participate in clinical rotations and internships to gain hands-on experience.
- Networking: Connect with faculty members and professionals in the field for mentorship and guidance.
The Ascent: Oral and Maxillofacial Residency Program
After dental school, you enter a residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
This is a rigorous program that blends medical, surgical, and anesthetic training.
To thrive in this stage:
- Continuous Learning: Be prepared for intensive learning as you develop surgical skills and medical knowledge.
- Resilience: This demanding program requires physical and emotional stamina, so take care of your wellbeing and seek support when needed.
- Hands-on Training: Gain as much practical experience as possible in various surgical procedures.
Reaching New Heights: Board-Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
Once you complete your residency, you can become a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon after passing an examination.
You will manage patients with conditions like facial injuries, oral cancer, and jaw misalignment.
To excel at this stage:
- Professionalism: Uphold the highest standards of patient care and maintain ethical practices.
- Continued Education: Stay updated with the latest advancements in the field through professional development and continued learning.
- Teamwork: Collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care.
Beyond the Horizon: Senior Surgeon and Specialist Roles
After gaining experience, you may choose to specialize in a particular subfield, such as cosmetic facial surgery or craniofacial surgery.
You might also take on leadership roles as a senior surgeon or department head.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Specialization: Master your chosen area of specialty and become an expert in the field.
- Leadership: Develop leadership skills to manage teams and make strategic decisions.
- Research and Innovation: Engage in research to contribute to the advancement of the field and improve patient outcomes.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department
At the height of your career, you could become the Director of an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department.
In this role, you’ll be responsible for leading a team of surgeons, overseeing patient care, making strategic decisions, and possibly teaching future generations of surgeons.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Salary
Entry-Level Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
- Median Salary: $180,000 – $230,000 per year
- Entry-level oral and maxillofacial surgeons have 0-2 years of experience, usually following the completion of their residency, and are just beginning to establish their practice in this specialized area of medicine.
Mid-Level Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
- Median Salary: $240,000 – $320,000 per year
- Mid-level surgeons have 2-5 years of experience and are expected to handle more complex surgical procedures. They may also have begun to specialize in areas such as corrective jaw surgery or facial trauma.
Senior Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
- Median Salary: $330,000 – $420,000 per year
- Senior oral and maxillofacial surgeons have 5+ years of experience. They are likely to lead surgical teams, teach younger surgeons, and handle the most complex and delicate surgeries.
Lead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon / Department Head
- Median Salary: $430,000 – $550,000+ per year
- These roles require significant experience and often involve leading an entire department, making decisions on surgical procedures and protocols, and overseeing the development and training of staff.
Chief of Surgery / Medical Director
- Median Salary: $600,000 – $800,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience and deep medical expertise. They often involve setting strategies for the surgical department, overseeing all surgical operations, and making final decisions on complex cases.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Work Environment
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons typically work in hospitals, dental offices, and outpatient care centers.
They might also find employment in academic institutions where they teach and conduct research.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons often work full time and may have to work on an on-call basis for emergencies, which could include nights, weekends, and holidays.
These surgeons usually have a team that includes dental assistants, anesthesiologists, and other surgical staff.
They work in well-lit, sterile environments to conduct procedures and often spend long periods standing while operating.
After gaining substantial experience and building a reputation, some Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons may choose to open their private practices or clinics.
FAQs About Becoming an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
What is needed to become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?
To become an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, you need to complete an undergraduate degree, preferably in a science-related field, followed by four years of dental school to obtain a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree.
After dental school, you need to complete a 4 to 6 year residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Certification from the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is highly desirable.
The ability to communicate effectively with patients, physical stamina, manual dexterity, and a high level of precision are also necessary skills in this profession.
How long does it take to become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?
The path to becoming an oral and maxillofacial surgeon typically takes around 12 to 14 years.
This includes a four-year undergraduate degree, four years of dental school, and a 4 to 6 year residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
After completion of the residency, many surgeons also pursue a board certification which can take an additional couple of years.
Can I become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon without a medical degree?
No, you cannot become an oral and maxillofacial surgeon without a medical degree.
This field requires extensive study and surgical training.
You need to have a degree in dentistry (DDS or DMD) followed by a residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Some programs also require a medical degree in addition to a dental degree, making the educational requirements even more rigorous.
Is being an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon stressful?
Being an oral and maxillofacial surgeon can be stressful due to the high level of precision required in surgeries, the long hours, and the need to be on call for emergencies.
However, the field can also be extremely rewarding, providing relief and improved quality of life for patients.
Stress can be managed with good work-life balance and stress management strategies.
What are the prospects for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons in the next decade?
The job outlook for oral and maxillofacial surgeons is expected to be positive in the next decade.
As the population ages, there will be increased demand for procedures to improve oral health, such as dental implants and corrective surgeries.
Additionally, advancements in technology and medical techniques are likely to create new opportunities and challenges in this field.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
The journey to becoming an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon is indeed a lofty endeavor, but the outcome is undoubtedly gratifying.
Equipped with the essential skills, education, and unwavering resolve, you’re all set to leave a lasting impact in the medical field.
Bear in mind, the route might be strenuous, but the possibilities are infinite. Your expertise could pave the way for revolutionary surgical procedures that transform how we understand and approach oral and facial health.
So, take that leap. Immerse yourself in continued education. Connect with medical professionals. And above all, never stop honing your surgical skills.
Because the world is eagerly anticipating the health improvements you can bring.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on initiating or progressing your career as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to effectively steer your career path.
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