FAQ
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an oral and maxillofacial surgeon: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about oral and maxillofacial surgeons
How long does it take to become an oral surgeon?
About 12–14 years after high school.
Do oral surgeons have medical degrees?
Some do, through combined residency programs.
Do oral surgeons give anesthesia?
Yes, they are trained to provide sedation and general anesthesia.
How much does an oral and maxillofacial surgeon make?
The median annual wage for oral and maxillofacial surgeons was $352,220 ($169.34 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $86,250 and the highest 10% earned more than $622,640.
How long does it take to become an oral and maxillofacial surgeon?
Most people need about 12–14 years after high school of training. A dental degree (DDS or DMD) plus a 4–6 year oral and maxillofacial surgery residency is required; some residencies include a medical degree.
Do you need a degree to be an oral and maxillofacial surgeon?
Yes. BLS lists a doctoral or professional degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
Is oral and maxillofacial surgeon a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +5.6% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 200 openings each year. Upsides include among the highest-paid jobs; a common challenge is that very long training.
What skills does an oral and maxillofacial surgeon need?
Key technical skills include oral surgery, anesthesia and sedation, implant placement, and facial trauma repair. Employers also value precision, calm under pressure, and communication.
What certifications are available for oral and maxillofacial surgeons?
Common credentials include Board certification (ABOMS), State dental license, General anesthesia permit, and ACLS and PALS. Oral surgeons need a state dental license and anesthesia permits; board certification is voluntary but common.
Still deciding?
Try the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon fit quiz, compare with Dentist, or explore Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1022 (Oral and maxillofacial surgeons).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Oral and maxillofacial surgeons (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.