Employers

Most oral and maxillofacial surgeons are in private practice, but others work in academia as teachers. Others serve in the military, where dental professionals are needed in all service branches. Some conduct research at laboratories.  

Starting Out

Many surgeons land their first jobs as a result of contacts made during their residency or fellowship. They can also identify employment leads by using job boards offered by dental associations, by contacting dental practices to see if any openings are available, and by networking with fellow students, professors, and practicing surgeons.

The American Student Dental Association offers Career Compass, an online resource that provides career guidance for students who are graduating from dental school. Visit https://www.asdanet.org/utility-navigation/career-compass-home to access Career compass.

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon who works as a salaried surgeon for a large dental services provider can advance by starting his or her own practice. Some choose to become professors at dental schools, conduct dental research, or become active in executive-level positions at dental associations.  

Read Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontology  (https://www.oooojournal.net) and the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (https://www.joms.org) to learn more about the field.

Visit https://www.healthecareers.com/aaoms/search-jobs for job listings.

As a high school or undergraduate student, gain experience by volunteering or completing an internship at a dental office.

Participate in the Women in OMS Mentorship Program, https://www.aaoms.org/education-research/dental-students/roaaoms-women-in-oms-mentorship-program.