Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of healthcare, the importance of Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons cannot be overstated.

As medical advancements continue to evolve, the need for skilled and dedicated surgeons who can diagnose and treat conditions affecting the oral and maxillofacial region of children amplifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager detailing the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricate field of pediatric oral and maxillofacial surgery,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Duties and Responsibilities

Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons specialize in diagnosing and surgically treating diseases, injuries, and defects of the oral and maxillofacial region in children and adolescents.

They have a diverse range of responsibilities, which include but are not limited to:

• Evaluating and diagnosing diseases, injuries, and defects in the oral and maxillofacial region in pediatric patients
• Performing surgical procedures such as removing impacted teeth, correcting cleft lip and palate, and treating facial injuries
• Providing surgical treatment for tumors and cysts of the jaws
• Collaborating with other specialists, such as orthodontists and pediatric dentists, to plan treatment for conditions such as malocclusion and dental arch abnormalities
• Managing patients with severe oral and maxillofacial trauma or infections
• Administering anesthetics and sedatives to ensure patient comfort during surgical procedures
• Conducting post-operative care and follow-up, including monitoring patients for complications
• Communicating with patients and their parents about surgical procedures, potential risks, and post-operative care
• Keeping accurate and detailed patient records, including diagnosis, treatment plans, and surgical notes
• Staying updated on the latest techniques, technologies and medical findings in pediatric oral and maxillofacial surgery through continuous learning and professional development

 

Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon to join our team.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a variety of conditions and disorders related to the oral cavity, jaws, face, and associated structures in children and adolescents.

The Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon will perform surgeries ranging from simple tooth extractions to complex procedures involving the jaw or facial structure.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate patients to determine the nature of their conditions and the best course of treatment.
• Perform oral and maxillofacial surgeries on patients.
• Work closely with other medical professionals, including anesthesiologists and orthodontists, to provide comprehensive patient care.
• Follow-up with patients to monitor their recovery and handle any post-operative complications.
• Participate in continuing education courses to stay abreast of the latest advancements in the field.
• Ensure compliance with all healthcare regulations, including patient safety and confidentiality.
• Document patient care and maintain detailed medical records.

 

Qualifications

• Doctorate of Medicine (MD) degree from an accredited institution.
• Completion of a residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
• Board certified or board eligible in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
• Additional training or experience in Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle high-pressure situations and make critical decisions.
• Valid medical license and malpractice insurance.

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Professional development opportunities
• Paid time off
• Malpractice insurance coverage

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
• Work Environment: Hospital or private practice. May require long hours and being on-call.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief of Surgery or Practice Owner.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $250,000 minimum to $450,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and copies of your medical license and insurance to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Do?

Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are specialized dental professionals who diagnose and treat conditions, injuries, defects, and diseases of the mouth, jaw, teeth, neck, and facial structures of children, ranging from infancy through adolescence.

They perform surgical procedures to correct issues such as impacted teeth, misaligned jaws, cleft lip and palate, and other oral and facial abnormalities.

These surgeons often collaborate with other specialists, like orthodontists and pediatric dentists, to plan comprehensive treatment for their young patients.

They use a variety of diagnostic tools, including X-rays and 3D imaging, to assist in their evaluations.

In addition to performing surgeries, Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons also provide consultations to parents and patients about postoperative care, potential risks and complications, and the benefits of surgery.

They are skilled in handling the specific needs of children, including managing their anxiety and ensuring their comfort throughout the process.

As such, these professionals are also trained in administering and monitoring anesthesia in children.

Moreover, they may conduct or participate in research to advance the field of pediatric oral and maxillofacial surgery, as well as educate dental students and residents in their specialty.

 

Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Deep understanding and proficiency in oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures on children and adolescents including the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and conditions of the mouth, jaws, face, and neck.
• Strong knowledge of pediatric diseases, and the ability to identify and manage such conditions as they relate to oral health.
• Excellent communication skills to clearly explain diagnoses, procedures, and aftercare instructions to both patients and their parents or guardians.
• High level of empathy and patience to provide comforting care to young patients who may be scared or anxious.
• Exceptional manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for performing precise and intricate surgical procedures.
• The ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressure, especially in emergency situations.
• Effective problem-solving skills to correctly diagnose conditions and plan appropriate treatments.
• Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate with other healthcare professionals such as pediatricians, anesthesiologists, and nurses.
• High attention to detail, to ensure all patient records are accurate and up-to-date.
• Medical degree with a specialization in oral and maxillofacial surgery, and further specialization or experience in pediatrics.
• A valid medical license and board certification in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

 

Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Experience Requirements

Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons generally require extensive education and training, including a bachelor’s degree, dental school, and a specialty residency program.

The entire educational journey could take more than a decade.

In addition to education, these surgeons need to accumulate a significant amount of clinical experience during their residency.

This experience, generally 4 to 6 years, allows them to gain practical skills in surgical procedures, anesthesia, and patient care.

After completing their residency, some surgeons may choose to continue their training in a fellowship program.

These programs provide additional experience in specific types of surgeries or patient populations.

For example, a surgeon may choose a pediatric fellowship to gain more experience with young patients.

Upon entering the field, a Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon may accumulate experience in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, or academic institutions.

It is common for these professionals to have at least 5 years of post-residency experience before considering more senior or leadership roles.

For those aspiring to specialize in research or teaching, additional years of experience in these areas may be required.

Likewise, roles involving complex surgical procedures or rare conditions may require specialized experience beyond the typical requirements.

Lastly, maintaining board certification, which often involves ongoing training and assessment, is essential to stay updated with the latest practices in this field.

 

Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon requires extensive education and training.

A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Biology or Chemistry is the first step, although some candidates may choose a pre-med program.

This is followed by a four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program, accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation.

Once dental school is completed, aspiring Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons must then pursue a surgical residency program, which usually lasts 4-6 years.

This residency program specifically focuses on the oral and maxillofacial region, and includes training in general anesthesia and emergency medicine.

Following this, a fellowship in pediatric maxillofacial surgery, which lasts 1-2 years, is typically undertaken.

This program trains surgeons to handle conditions, deformities, injuries, and aesthetic aspects of the mouth, teeth, jaws and face of children.

Passing the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) certification examination is the final step, which leads to becoming a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.

Some Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons choose to pursue additional fellowships or certifications in related areas such as Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery or Pediatric Cleft and Craniofacial Surgery, to further enhance their expertise and skills.

To maintain their certification, Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are required to participate in ongoing learning and professional development throughout their career.

 

Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Salary Expectations

A Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon earns an average salary of $412,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary significantly based on factors such as the surgeon’s level of experience, the location of the practice, and the complexity of the procedures they perform.

 

Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon need?

A Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon must have a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) degree from an accredited dental school.

They also need to have completed a residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery and have board certification from the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Sub-specialization in pediatric oral and maxillofacial surgery usually requires additional fellowship training.

 

What are the daily duties of a Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?

A Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon typically starts their day by reviewing patient medical histories and surgical plans.

They perform surgeries to treat diseases, injuries, or deformities of the mouth, jaw, and facial structures.

They may also consult with other healthcare professionals about patient care, perform post-operative follow-ups, and engage in continuous professional development activities.

 

What qualities make a good Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?

A good Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon should have excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for precise surgical procedures.

They should also have strong interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with children and their parents, empathy to understand and manage the fears and anxieties of young patients, and the ability to make quick, effective decisions in emergency situations.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?

Finding a qualified Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon can be challenging, as this field requires specialized training and skills.

It may be necessary to offer competitive benefits and salary to attract top talent, as well as a supportive and collaborative work environment that allows them to provide the best possible care to their patients.

 

What should you look for in a Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon’s resume?

In addition to verifying their degrees and board certification, look for a strong clinical background in oral and maxillofacial surgery with a focus on pediatrics.

Consider their experience with specific procedures, patient populations, and multidisciplinary team collaborations.

Additionally, any research or teaching experience can be a valuable asset.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an inside look into the intricate role of a Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.

And guess what?

It’s not just about performing surgeries.

It’s about molding the future, one child’s smile at a time.

With our reliable Pediatric Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon job description template and real-life scenarios, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why halt your journey here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting precision-based listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Each surgery, each patient interaction, is part of a broader purpose.

Let’s create those smiles. Together.

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