Oral surgeons and their assistants examine dental X-rays prior to surgery.
Oral surgeons, sometimes referred to as oral and maxillofacial surgeons, are experts in the practice of various types of dental surgery. Those who want to work in this field can expect to complete extensive education beyond dental school. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, oral and maxillofacial surgeons made a median salary of $166,400 as of May 2009.
Bachelor's Degree
Prior to dental school, aspiring oral surgeons complete a bachelor's degree or at least a minimum of two to three years of studies in preparation for dental school. It is possible to be admitted early and finish your bachelor's degree while completing dental school. There are no required degrees for admission to dental school, but a degree in a field that stresses science is typically preferred.
Dental School Admission Requirements
The oral surgeon needs to complete a doctor of dental surgery (DDS) degree in dental school. The DDS degree usually takes four years. The majority of dental school applicants have a bachelor's degree prior to entry, but some schools like the University of Colorado will accept students who have a minimum of 90 hours of undergraduate study. Prerequisite courses in areas like biology, microbiology and biochemistry may be required. Some schools also require minimum scores on the Dental Admissions Test or DAT.
Curriculum Requirements
Oral surgery degrees can typically be broken down into two distinct periods in dental school. The first two years consist of foundational studies in which students take courses in advanced science like human anatomy and general pathology. Other courses typically required are introductory dentistry, dental morphology, cariology and occlusion. During the second two yeas of dental studies, aspiring oral surgeons complete more advanced coursework in areas like pediatric dentistry, implant dentistry and aesthetic dentistry. They also gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in areas like clinical orthodontics and clinical periodontics.
Other Degrees
Some oral surgeons pursue additional degrees at the master's degree or doctorate level in conjunction with the DDS degree. Some dental schools offer joint DDS/Ph.D. programs. Graduates of these programs may go on to establish practices in oral surgery, work as university professors, develop new procedures in oral surgery or all of the above.
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