Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are specialized surgeons who focus on treating conditions, injuries, defects, and aesthetic aspects of the mouth, teeth, jaws, and face. Their job description typically includes performing surgeries such as dental implants, jaw realignment, facial reconstruction, and treatment of oral diseases and disorders. They may also collaborate with other medical professionals to address complex cases involving the head and neck region.

Education / Training

To become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, individuals typically need to complete a bachelor's degree, followed by four years of dental school to attain a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. Subsequently, aspiring oral surgeons undertake a specialized residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery lasting about four to six years, gaining hands-on experience in surgical techniques, anesthesia, and patient care. It is essential to have completed high school and college to pursue this profession due to the rigorous educational path and specialized training requirements. Training for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons involves both didactic coursework and extensive clinical rotations. Residents learn advanced surgical techniques, including facial trauma management, corrective jaw surgery, dental implant placement, and treatment of oral pathologies. They also gain experience in administering anesthesia and managing post-operative care. Throughout their training, oral surgery residents work under experienced mentors, honing their skills in a range of surgical procedures to prepare for independent practice in this specialized field.