Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
Save
Duties and Responsibilities
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons perform many kinds of reconstructive surgeries, such as grafts and bone repair. They are also qualified to treat oral and maxillofacial trauma, as well as treat infections and diseases of the mouth and jaw, including tooth extractions.
Education and Training
To become an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, it's necessary to first earn a bachelor's degree. After graduating, you'll need to attend dental school. Once you have your DDS or DMD, you'll need to complete an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency. During your residency, you will receive training in surgical procedures, as well as in the diagnosis and management of oral and maxillofacial conditions.
Skills
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons often have extensive knowledge of the following:
- Anatomy of the head and neck
- Surgical techniques
- Patient care
- Communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
Tools and Equipment
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons use a variety of tools and equipment, including scalpels, forceps, drills, and lasers. They also use imaging technologies, such as X-rays and CT scans, to diagnose and treat patients.
Career Growth
There are many opportunities for career growth for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. With experience, they can become more specialized in particular areas of surgery, such as orthognathic surgery or facial trauma surgery. They can also move into leadership roles, such as becoming a department head or a medical director.
Transferable Skills
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons develop a number of skills that are transferable to other careers, such as surgical skills, patient care skills, and communication skills. These skills can be valuable in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practice.
Day-to-Day
The day-to-day work of an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon can vary depending on their specialty. However, some common tasks include performing surgeries, diagnosing and treating patients, and providing patient care.
