How to Become an Oral Surgeon: Education, Training, and Career Outlook

If you’re considering a career in dentistry and want to specialize in complex surgical procedures, oral and maxillofacial surgery may be the right path for you. Oral surgeons are specialists trained to perform advanced operations such as wisdom tooth extractions, corrective jaw surgery, bone grafts, and even reconstructive procedures. These professionals play an essential role in both oral health and overall patient well-being.

This guide breaks down the steps to becoming an oral surgeon, the responsibilities of the role, salary expectations, and key insights to help you decide if this specialty is right for you.

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Steps to Becoming an Oral Surgeon

Becoming an oral surgeon requires significant dedication. The process typically takes 12 to 14 years of higher education and training. Here’s a breakdown of the path:

Step One: Earn an Undergraduate Degree

Your first step is to complete a bachelor’s degree at an accredited university. Because dental schools require strong science foundations, most students choose majors such as biology or chemistry, although you may pursue any major that allows you to maintain a high GPA. Prerequisites usually include biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and social sciences.

Step Two: Take the DAT

The Dental Admission Test (DAT) is a critical part of your application to dental school. Most students take it in their sophomore or junior year. Preparing with a study schedule and giving yourself time for a possible retake can increase your chances of earning a competitive score.

Step Three: Attend Dental School

Once admitted to dental school, you’ll spend four years earning a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. The curriculum includes both classroom learning and clinical training in general dentistry. Strong academic performance and mentorship connections during this stage are crucial, especially when applying for surgical residencies.

Step Four: Complete an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency

After dental school, aspiring oral surgeons must complete a 4–6 year residency program. Four-year residencies provide surgical certification, while six-year programs often include a medical degree (MD) alongside surgical training. Residencies combine hospital-based surgical practice, clinical rotations, and advanced coursework.

Step Five: Pass Licensing Exams

To practice independently, graduates must pass the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE), along with any required state or regional licensing exams. These ensure readiness for professional practice and patient safety.

What Oral Surgeons Do

Oral surgeons handle a variety of procedures involving the teeth, jaw, and facial structures. Common procedures include:

• Wisdom tooth extractions and other surgical removals
• Dental implants and bone grafting
• Corrective jaw surgery for structural issues
• Cleft lip and palate repair
• Sleep apnea surgery to clear airway obstructions
• Periodontal surgery for advanced gum disease
• Tumor removal and biopsies
• Reconstructive and cosmetic surgery to restore function and appearance

In addition to surgical expertise, oral surgeons are trained to administer anesthesia, manage facial trauma, and work across hospital, clinic, and private practice settings.

Salary and Career Outlook

Given the extensive training required, oral surgeons are among the highest-paid dental professionals.

• Average annual salary: $309,000+
• Top earners: Over $400,000, particularly in cosmetic or specialized practices
• Job growth: Projected to increase by more than 12% over the next decade, making oral surgery a stable and in-demand field
  
  

FAQs About Oral Surgery Careers

#1. Is it difficult to become an oral surgeon?

Yes. The pathway requires at least 12 years of education and training, plus competitive residency placement.

#2. Where do oral surgeons work?

They practice in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, private dental clinics, and specialty practices.

#3. How long does it take to become an oral surgeon?

Typically 12–14 years: 4 years undergraduate, 4 years dental school, and 4–6 years residency.

#4. Is an oral surgeon the same as a dentist?

No. Oral surgeons first train as dentists but receive additional years of surgical training that allow them to perform advanced procedures and administer general anesthesia.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an oral surgeon is a long but rewarding path. The combination of technical skill, patient impact, and high earning potential makes this one of the most respected careers in dentistry.

If you’re planning to apply to dental school or pursue a surgical specialty, gaining hands-on clinical exposure early is a smart step. Structured opportunities such as Go Elective’s pre-dental internships abroad allow you to shadow experienced dentists, assist in clinical settings, and strengthen your dental school application while exploring global healthcare.

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, Dental Internships, Med Schools, Residency,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Sep 13, 2025