How to Become an Oral Surgeon (Say ‘Ahh’ to Achievement)
If you’ve ever dreamed of performing life-changing oral surgeries or pondered about the steps to become an oral surgeon, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll detail the EXACT route you need to follow to launch your career as an oral surgeon. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need to acquire.
- The education necessary for this role.
- How to secure a job as an oral surgeon.
So, whether you’re a medical novice or a healthcare professional looking to specialize, stay tuned.
We’re about to uncover the roadmap to becoming an oral surgeon.
Let’s dive in!
Steps to Become an Oral Surgeon
Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
Before pursuing a career as an oral surgeon, an aspiring candidate must first complete a bachelor’s degree.
There are no specific bachelor’s degrees required to become an oral surgeon, but it’s recommended to major in a science field such as biology, chemistry, or physics to prepare for dental school.
During the undergraduate years, it’s essential to maintain a high GPA, as admission into dental school can be highly competitive.
Students may also want to participate in extracurricular activities related to healthcare or volunteer at dental clinics or hospitals to gain experience and show commitment to the field.
It is beneficial if students take courses in anatomy, microbiology, and physiology since dental schools will look for these in an applicant’s background.
Also, preparing for and taking the Dental Admission Test (DAT) is a crucial step during the undergraduate years.
This test assesses the applicant’s academic capacity and understanding of scientific information, which is a significant factor for dental school admissions.
Step 2: Take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT)
After completing your undergraduate degree, the next crucial step in becoming an Oral Surgeon is to take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT).
The DAT is a standardized exam used by dental schools as part of their admissions process.
This test is designed to assess your understanding of natural sciences, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning skills.
Begin preparing for the DAT early, using study guides and practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and types of questions you will encounter.
A strong score on the DAT is essential for being accepted into a competitive dental school program.
Remember, the DAT score is not the only factor dental schools consider.
They also look at your overall academic record, letters of recommendation, and interviews.
Therefore, while preparing for the DAT, continue to maintain strong grades in your coursework, cultivate relationships with your professors for future recommendations, and hone your interview skills.
After passing the DAT, you are eligible to apply to dental schools.
Upon acceptance, you will embark on a rigorous course of study, typically four years, to obtain your Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree.
After this, additional years of specialized training in oral surgery are required.
Step 3: Attend Dental School
If you aspire to be an Oral Surgeon, attending dental school is a crucial step in this journey.
Most dental schools require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree for admission, typically in a science field such as biology or chemistry, although this varies from one institution to another.
During your four years at dental school, you’ll learn about oral health, diseases, diagnosis, and treatment procedures.
The initial two years usually cover general scientific coursework while the last two years concentrate on clinical practice.
Coursework often includes topics such as oral anatomy, periodontology, pharmacology, and other related subjects.
In addition, students also get the chance to work with patients under the supervision of experienced dentists.
This hands-on training is incredibly valuable as it provides you with real-world experience in diagnosing and treating dental problems.
Upon successful completion of dental school, you earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree.
This is then followed by the National Board Dental Examination, a mandatory exam that you need to pass to get your license and legally practice dentistry.
Please note that admission into dental school can be highly competitive.
Therefore, it’s essential to maintain a high GPA in your undergraduate studies, gain relevant work experience, and prepare thoroughly for the Dental Admission Test (DAT).
Step 4: Earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) Degree
In order to become an oral surgeon, a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree is required.
This is usually a four-year program which combines classroom instruction with clinical practice.
The first two years generally focus on classroom and laboratory studies in health and dental science, including anatomy, microbiology, biochemistry, and physiology.
The last two years are typically spent gaining practical experience under the supervision of experienced dental instructors in the university’s clinic.
During your DDS or DMD program, you may take courses in dental anesthesia, radiology, periodontology and pathology among others.
It’s also crucial to gain proficiency in various dental procedures and techniques.
You would learn how to diagnose and treat oral diseases, interpret dental radiographs, and administer local anesthesia.
These degrees are generally equivalent and the difference in name is due to the granting university’s preference.
The critical factor is that the program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
Upon completion of the DDS or DMD program, you must pass the National Board Dental Examinations to obtain licensure to practice dentistry.
This is a crucial step to proceed further in your career as an oral surgeon.
Step 5: Gain Practical Experience
After completing your educational journey, the next key step in becoming an oral surgeon is to gain practical experience in the field.
This will typically involve completing a residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery, which can last anywhere from four to six years.
During this time, you will be fully immersed in the field, working under the supervision of experienced oral surgeons to get hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating a variety of oral health conditions and performing surgical procedures.
Your residency not only allows you to practice what you’ve learned in a real-world setting, but also teaches you about patient care and helps you develop your communication skills.
You will learn to work as part of a team, manage complex cases, and deal with emergencies.
In addition to the residency, it can also be beneficial to seek out additional opportunities to gain practical experience such as internships, externships, or fellowships.
These can provide you with specialized experience in certain areas of oral surgery, further improving your expertise and making you more attractive to potential employers.
Remember, becoming an oral surgeon is not only about theoretical knowledge, but also about mastering the practical skills needed to provide high-quality patient care.
It’s this practical experience that will truly prepare you for a successful career in oral surgery.
Step 6: Complete an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Program
After graduating from dental school, aspiring oral surgeons must complete a 4 to 6-year oral and maxillofacial surgery residency program, which combines hands-on surgical training with a comprehensive study of the medical field related to the specialty.
This program typically offers training in areas such as anesthesia, general surgery, and the diagnosis and treatment of conditions, injuries, and diseases affecting the mouth, jaw, and face.
During the residency, you’ll have the opportunity to work with experienced oral surgeons in a clinical setting, gaining skills in diagnosing and managing conditions, performing complex surgical procedures, and providing patient care.
Residency programs may also offer research opportunities or require a thesis, depending on the program.
These rigorous programs are designed to prepare you for the challenges and responsibilities of an oral surgeon.
Upon completion of your residency, you may also choose to pursue a fellowship in a sub-specialty area such as craniofacial surgery, cosmetic facial surgery, or head and neck oncology.
This additional training can open up more advanced career opportunities.
Remember, the path to becoming an oral surgeon is long and requires a great deal of dedication and hard work.
However, the ability to make a meaningful difference in patient’s lives and the intellectual challenges of the field can make it a rewarding choice for those who are passionate about healthcare and surgery.
Step 7: Get Licensed to Practice Dentistry
Obtaining a license to practice dentistry is a critical step in becoming an oral surgeon.
To achieve this, you need to pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE), a two-part written exam covering dental sciences.
This examination is designed to test your understanding and application of the basic sciences relevant to dentistry, including anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology, pathology, and dental anatomy.
Each state has its own licensing requirements, and some may require additional state-specific exams.
It’s crucial to look into these specific requirements early on to ensure you’re adequately prepared.
Once you are licensed as a dentist, you can proceed with your specialized training in oral surgery.
Remember, the license needs to be maintained through continuous education and must be renewed periodically according to the rules of the state dental board.
Being licensed not only legalizes your practice but also instills trust in your patients, making them confident in your abilities as an oral surgeon.
Step 8: Obtain Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Board Certification
After completing your residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery, the next step in your career progression is to obtain board certification.
The American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) is the certifying board for this specialty in the United States.
To become board certified, you must pass a series of rigorous examinations administered by the ABOMS.
The process involves both a written qualifying examination and an oral certifying examination.
The written qualifying examination tests your knowledge in the broad field of oral and maxillofacial surgery, while the oral examination assesses your ability to apply your knowledge in a clinical setting.
It’s important to note that board certification is not a one-time event.
To maintain your certification, you must participate in continuing education and periodically take recertification exams.
This ensures that you stay current with the latest developments and advancements in the field.
Achieving board certification demonstrates your commitment to excellence in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
It can enhance your professional reputation, increase your opportunities for career advancement, and potentially lead to higher compensation.
Step 9: Gain Work Experience
After completing your residency, it’s time to start getting practical experience.
You may begin your career at an established dental practice or a hospital, gaining hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced oral surgeons.
This stage allows you to sharpen your surgical skills, apply theoretical knowledge into practice, and understand how to handle different cases and emergencies.
In addition to technical skills, you will also learn how to manage patient relationships, work with a team, and handle administrative tasks like record keeping.
Taking the time to learn from your seniors and colleagues is crucial at this stage.
They can provide valuable advice, tips and tricks of the trade, and feedback on your performance.
You may also consider working in different settings to gain a wider variety of experiences.
In the beginning, you may be assisting experienced surgeons, but over time, you’ll take on more complex cases.
This practical experience is vital for building confidence, improving your surgical skills, and preparing for the next step of your career, which could be starting your own practice or pursuing a fellowship for further specialization.
Step 10: Stay Abreast of the Latest Advances in Oral Surgery
The field of oral surgery is constantly advancing, with new surgical techniques and technologies being developed regularly.
As an oral surgeon, it is crucial that you stay updated on these advancements to provide the best care for your patients and to maintain your competitive edge in the field.
Consider subscribing to relevant medical journals, attending industry conferences and workshops, and joining professional organizations, such as the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
These platforms provide valuable resources and opportunities for continuous learning.
You may also consider taking additional classes or earning certifications in new procedures or technologies to expand your skill set.
Staying current on the latest research can also help you to improve patient outcomes and possibly reduce recovery times.
This commitment to ongoing learning and development not only benefits your patients but also demonstrates your dedication to excellence in your profession.
Make it a point to dedicate time in your schedule for these activities to ensure you stay at the forefront of your field.
Step 11: Develop Interpersonal Skills
As an oral surgeon, a significant part of your job will entail interacting with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.
Therefore, it is vital to develop strong interpersonal skills.
These are the abilities you use to interact and communicate with others effectively.
They include communication skills, empathy, patience, and a respectful demeanor.
Being able to communicate clearly and effectively is a fundamental skill.
This involves not just explaining complex medical terms in a way that patients can understand but also listening to their concerns and answering their questions patiently and empathetically.
Remember, many patients might be anxious or fearful about oral surgery, so your ability to reassure them and put them at ease can make a huge difference.
Additionally, oral surgeons often work as part of a medical team, including general dentists, orthodontists, anesthesiologists, and nurses.
Therefore, the ability to work well with others, demonstrate leadership, and resolve conflicts is crucial.
Developing your interpersonal skills can also help you build a good rapport with your patients, thereby increasing patient satisfaction and the likelihood of getting referrals.
This skill is not typically taught in a formal setting but can be developed and improved through practice, feedback, and self-reflection.
Attending relevant workshops or courses can also be beneficial.
Step 12: Consider a Fellowship for Further Specialization
After you’ve completed your residency and are a certified oral surgeon, consider further honing your skills and knowledge through a fellowship.
A fellowship is a form of specialized training that allows you to gain more expertise in a specific aspect of oral and maxillofacial surgery.
These fellowships can range from reconstructive surgery, cleft and craniofacial surgery, cosmetic facial surgery, to more complex areas like head and neck cancer surgery or microvascular surgery.
This step is not mandatory but can provide a significant edge in your career by giving you a high level of specialty, making you more attractive to potential employers or if you plan to open your own practice.
To enter a fellowship, you usually need to provide evidence of clinical and surgical competence, as well as the recommendation of your residency director.
Fellowships typically last one to two years and often lead to certification in a sub-specialty.
Remember, choosing to do a fellowship is a big decision that requires significant commitment and dedication, but the specialized training and expertise you gain can be invaluable in your career as an oral surgeon.
Step 13: Join Professional Associations
Joining professional associations is an essential step in your career as an oral surgeon.
Not only do these organizations provide opportunities for networking with other professionals in your field, they also offer resources to help you stay updated on the latest industry trends and advancements in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
These associations often host conferences, workshops, and seminars that can contribute to your continuing education credits, which are essential for maintaining your licensure.
They also provide a platform for collaboration, allowing you to share your research and learn from the experiences of other oral surgeons.
Examples of professional associations you might consider joining include the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS), and the American Dental Association (ADA).
Each of these organizations provides its own unique benefits, so it’s beneficial to explore each one and consider which aligns best with your professional goals and needs.
Moreover, joining such associations can enhance your credibility and reputation in the field, making you more attractive to potential employers and patients.
It also shows your commitment to the field and to maintaining the highest standards in your practice.
Step 14: Explore Job Opportunities
As an oral surgeon, you have numerous job opportunities available to you.
You may opt to join an existing dental or medical practice where you work alongside other dental professionals.
Alternatively, you may choose to establish your own practice, which allows for more control over your schedule and the types of cases you handle.
Joining professional organizations such as the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons can also be beneficial as they often provide job boards and networking opportunities.
Attend industry conferences and seminars to connect with potential employers and keep up-to-date with the latest research and techniques in the field.
In addition, consider opportunities in academia, where you could teach future oral surgeons and contribute to research in the field.
Alternatively, you could work in a hospital setting, providing critical care for patients with severe oral health issues.
You might also want to explore opportunities in public health or working for corporations that manufacture dental products.
There are also opportunities for oral surgeons in the military, where they provide care for service members and their families.
Remember to keep your curriculum vitae (CV) updated and ready for potential employers.
This document should highlight your qualifications, surgical expertise, research experience, and any awards or recognitions you have received in your field.
Lastly, consider working with a professional recruiter who specializes in the healthcare industry.
They can help you find job opportunities that align with your career goals and provide guidance throughout the application and interview process.
Step 15: Establish Your Practice
Once you have completed your residency and received your licensure, you are ready to start your career as an Oral Surgeon.
You can consider working in a hospital or medical center, or you may want to establish your own practice.
If you choose to establish your own practice, you should start by scouting for a suitable location where there is a need for an oral surgeon.
You will also need to invest in the necessary surgical equipment and hire competent staff including dental assistants, anesthetists, and administrative personnel.
You may also need to source for financing if your personal funds aren’t sufficient.
Another important aspect to consider is the legalities and insurance requirements of setting up your own practice.
This could involve hiring a lawyer or consulting with a professional insurance agent to ensure you are adequately covered.
In addition to setting up your practice, you need to create strategies to attract and retain patients.
This could involve advertising your services, offering competitive prices, and ensuring excellent patient care.
Moreover, continuous education is a must in the field of oral surgery.
Stay updated with the latest advances in dental surgery techniques and new research in oral health.
This will help to enhance your credibility and attract more patients to your practice.
Starting your own oral surgery practice is challenging but with the right planning and perseverance, it can be an extremely rewarding career path.
Oral Surgeon Roles and Responsibilities
Oral Surgeons are specialized professionals in the field of dentistry who diagnose and treat conditions, injuries, and defects impacting the hard and soft tissues of the oral (mouth) and maxillofacial (jaw and face) region.
They use surgical and non-surgical methods to treat various conditions.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Diagnosis and Consultation
- Evaluate patient’s dental health and diagnose oral diseases and abnormalities.
- Interpret X-rays and diagnostic tests to identify oral and jaw-related health issues.
- Consult with patients on treatment options and preventative measures.
Surgical Procedures
- Perform surgeries on the mouth, jaws, and related facial structures.
- Extract impacted, damaged, and non-restorable teeth.
- Perform corrective surgeries for conditions such as cleft palate, misaligned jaws, and obstructive sleep apnea.
Dental Implants
- Perform dental implant surgery to replace missing teeth.
- Work closely with prosthodontists to ensure proper alignment and fit of implants.
Trauma Care
- Provide emergency treatment for facial injuries including soft tissue lacerations and fractured facial bones.
- Repair complex facial skin lacerations, set fractured jaw and facial bones, reconnect severed nerves and ducts.
Pain Management
- Administer local, sedation, or general anesthesia during dental procedures.
- Manage patients’ post-surgical pain and discomfort.
Collaboration
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals such as orthodontists, pedodontists, periodontists, and ENT specialists for comprehensive patient care.
Record Keeping
- Maintain accurate records of diagnoses, treatments, and patient progress.
Continuing Education
- Stay updated with the latest research, tools, and techniques in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
- Attend seminars, workshops, and other training programs for continuous professional development.
Risk Management
- Follow strict infection control protocols to prevent cross-contamination.
- Adhere to established medical protocols for all treatments and procedures to ensure patient safety.
Communication
- Communicate effectively with patients, explaining complex medical conditions and procedures in a way they can understand.
Leadership and Supervision
- Supervise and guide the work of dental assistants and other support staff during surgical procedures.
What Does an Oral Surgeon Do?
Oral Surgeons, also known as Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, specialize in treating diseases, injuries, and defects of the hard and soft tissues of the face, mouth, and jaws.
They often work in hospitals, dental offices, or surgical centers.
They perform surgeries on the mouth, teeth, jaws, and related facial structures to rectify issues such as impacted teeth, jaw bone issues, or oral cancer.
They are also responsible for dental implant surgeries, tooth extractions, and corrective jaw surgeries.
Oral Surgeons work closely with other dental professionals and healthcare providers to provide comprehensive care for their patients.
They may also administer anesthesia or sedation to patients during surgical procedures.
In addition to performing surgeries, they provide patient care before and after surgery, including diagnosing diseases, formulating treatment plans, and managing postoperative pain and recovery.
Furthermore, Oral Surgeons often work with patients who have suffered facial trauma, performing reconstructive surgery to restore functionality and aesthetics.
They are also consulted in cases of severe oral infections and may perform biopsies of suspicious oral lesions.
Overall, the role of an Oral Surgeon is multifaceted, requiring a comprehensive understanding of both dentistry and medicine.
Essential Oral Surgeon Skills
- Medical Knowledge: Oral surgeons must have a deep understanding of human anatomy, specifically the mouth, jaw, and face. They should also be familiar with various diseases, conditions, and issues that affect these areas.
- Surgical Skills: This is the core of an oral surgeon’s job. They should be proficient in performing various types of oral and maxillofacial surgeries, such as tooth extractions, jaw surgeries, and corrective surgeries.
- Diagnosis: The ability to correctly identify and assess oral health problems is crucial. This involves conducting thorough examinations, interpreting medical histories, and understanding diagnostic tests.
- Stamina and Dexterity: Oral surgeons often spend long hours on their feet, performing delicate procedures. Excellent physical stamina, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills are required.
- Communication: They need to explain complex medical conditions and procedures to patients and their families in a way they understand. Good listening skills are also essential to address patient concerns and answer queries.
- Problem-solving: Oral surgeons need to think quickly and make sound decisions, especially during emergencies. They also need creative thinking to develop personalized treatment plans.
- Empathy: A good oral surgeon should empathize with patients’ pain and anxieties. This quality helps in gaining patient trust and making them comfortable during treatments.
- Patient Management: Managing the patient before, during, and after surgery is essential. This includes controlling pain, preventing infection, and providing post-operative care instructions.
- Professionalism: Adherence to medical ethics, respecting patient confidentiality, and maintaining a professional demeanor even under pressure are vital for an oral surgeon.
- Anesthesiology: Oral surgeons must be skilled in administering anesthesia, as most oral surgeries require it. They need to understand its effects and manage any associated risks.
- Teamwork: Oral surgeons often work with a team of dental assistants, anesthesiologists, and other medical professionals. Hence, good teamwork skills are required for successful surgeries.
- Critical Care: Skills in managing life-threatening situations, providing emergency care, and maintaining the patient’s vital signs are necessary, especially during complex surgeries.
- Continuous Learning: Medical knowledge and technology are always evolving. Therefore, a good oral surgeon should commit to lifelong learning and stay updated with the latest research and techniques.
Oral Surgeon Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Dental School and Residency
Your journey to becoming an Oral Surgeon begins with dental school, followed by a residency program.
In dental school, you’ll gain a comprehensive knowledge of general dentistry and oral health, while the residency program will provide specialized training in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Here are some tips for success at this stage:
- Academic Excellence: Strive for high grades in your coursework and practical sessions.
- Clinical Skills: Develop your clinical skills and knowledge through extensive practice.
- Networking: Build relationships with peers and mentors that will support your future career.
The Ascent: Junior Oral Surgeon
After completing your residency, you’re qualified to work as a Junior Oral Surgeon.
You’ll gain practical experience under the guidance of more experienced surgeons, performing procedures such as tooth extractions and dental implant placements.
To thrive in this role:
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest surgical techniques and medical advancements.
- Stress Management: Develop strategies to handle the pressure and responsibilities of surgery.
- Patient Care: Focus on providing excellent patient care, both in terms of surgical outcomes and bedside manner.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Oral Surgeon
With several years of experience, you can advance to a Senior Oral Surgeon role.
You’ll handle more complex surgical procedures and potentially lead a team of junior surgeons.
To excel as a Senior Oral Surgeon:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and experience with junior colleagues to help them grow.
- Leadership: Show strong leadership in the operating room and when coordinating with other healthcare professionals.
- Research: Stay involved with research and advancements in your field to continuously improve your practice.
Beyond the Horizon: Chief Surgeon or Department Head
As your career advances, you may transition into leadership roles such as Chief Surgeon or Department Head.
You’ll be responsible for overseeing the operations of your department, making strategic decisions, and shaping the future of your organization’s oral surgery practice.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Strategic Thinking: Develop strategies to improve patient care and operational efficiency.
- Management Skills: Learn to manage a team of surgeons and support staff effectively.
- Policy Development: Participate in shaping health policies in your organization and the larger healthcare community.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of Oral Surgery
At the highest level, you may serve as the Director of Oral Surgery in a large hospital or healthcare system.
You’ll have a significant influence on the delivery of oral healthcare, including setting standards, implementing policies, and leading a large team of healthcare professionals.
Oral Surgeon Salary
Entry-Level Oral Surgeon
- Median Salary: $150,000 – $200,000 per year
- Entry-level oral surgeons typically have just completed their residency program. They have a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) or a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree and are starting to practice professionally.
Mid-Level Oral Surgeon
- Median Salary: $200,000 – $300,000 per year
- Mid-level oral surgeons have 2-7 years of professional practice beyond residency. They typically perform more complex procedures and may have begun to specialize in areas such as corrective jaw surgery or facial trauma surgery.
Senior Oral Surgeon
- Median Salary: $300,000 – $400,000 per year
- Senior oral surgeons possess 8+ years of professional experience. They may have significant expertise in their specialized field and often take leadership roles in their workplace or professional organizations.
Oral Surgeon / Department Head
- Median Salary: $350,000 – $500,000 per year
- This role often comes with significant professional experience and involves leadership in a healthcare organization or a dental department, decision-making, and supervision of junior surgeons and dental personnel.
Oral Surgeon / Hospital Chief of Staff
- Median Salary: $400,000 – $600,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive professional experience, deep surgical expertise, and often involve setting surgical strategies for a healthcare organization and overseeing all surgical staff and procedures.
Oral Surgeon Work Environment
Oral Surgeons mainly work in dental clinics, hospitals, and surgical outpatient centers.
They often have their own private practices, but they may also be employed by large health organizations or academic institutions.
Being an Oral Surgeon often involves a regular work schedule, which can be long and exhausting due to the demanding nature of the job, although emergencies may require after-hours or weekend work.
The work environment for an Oral Surgeon can be intense, as they are dealing with complex oral and facial cases, often involving surgeries.
However, it is also highly rewarding as they play a crucial role in improving patients’ oral health and quality of life.
After gaining substantial experience and professional recognition, an Oral Surgeon may choose to establish their own private practice, or they could continue to climb the ladder within healthcare institutions, potentially reaching leadership positions.
FAQs About Becoming an Oral Surgeon
What is needed to become an oral surgeon?
To become an oral surgeon, you must have a strong background in biology, anatomy, and physiology, as well as exceptional manual dexterity and a high degree of precision.
This typically involves completing a bachelor’s degree followed by dental school, which usually takes four years.
After dental school, you must complete a surgical residency program that can last 4-6 years.
Also, oral surgeons must pass a licensing exam and, although not required, may choose to become board certified for higher prospects.
How long does it take to become an oral surgeon?
Becoming an oral surgeon is a lengthy process.
After finishing a four-year undergraduate degree, you’ll need to attend dental school, which typically takes another four years.
After dental school, it requires a residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery, which typically lasts 4-6 years.
Therefore, from start to finish, it could take anywhere from 12 to 14 years to become a fully qualified oral surgeon.
Can I become an oral surgeon without a medical degree?
No, you cannot become an oral surgeon without a medical degree.
Oral surgeons are specialized dentists who have completed additional training in surgery.
This requires a dental degree (DMD or DDS) followed by a residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Is being an oral surgeon a stressful job?
Being an oral surgeon can be stressful due to the high stakes nature of surgical procedures.
The job often requires long hours and being on-call for emergencies.
However, many oral surgeons find the work rewarding as they are able to dramatically improve patients’ health and quality of life.
What are the prospects for oral surgeons in the next decade?
The job prospects for oral surgeons are expected to be strong in the next decade.
As the population ages, the need for specialized dental procedures will likely increase.
Furthermore, advancements in dental technology and the increasing importance of oral health in overall wellness are expected to contribute to the demand for oral surgeons.
Conclusion
There you go.
Embarking on the journey to become an oral surgeon is indeed a steep climb, but the rewards are incredibly fulfilling.
Equipped with the right skills, education, and perseverance, you’re on the path to making a remarkable difference in the field of oral health.
Remember, the road may be tough, but the possibilities are boundless. Your contributions could revolutionize the way we approach oral health and change countless lives for the better.
So, make that first move. Immerse yourself in continuous learning. Connect with seasoned professionals. And most importantly, never stop honing your surgical skills.
Because the world is eagerly awaiting your expertise.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on initiating or advancing your career in oral surgery, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide bespoke advice and resources to effectively steer your career journey.
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