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The Global Insight

Is oral surgery a good career?

Author

John Hall

Updated on March 22, 2026

Since an Oral Surgeon is a one among the primary doctor’s list, Oral Surgeons are in huge demand. Those who love the teaching profession can work as a lecturer at universities and colleges pursuing Oral Surgery and those who love to keep their life always busy can work both as lecturer and Surgeon.

Are oral surgeons rich?

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons made a median salary of $208,000 in 2019. The best-paid 25 percent made $208,000 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $173,470.

How many years does an oral surgeon take?

Typical training for an oral and maxillofacial surgeon includes: Two to four years undergraduate study (BS, BA, or equivalent degrees). Four years dental study (DMD, BDent, DDS or BDS). Four to six years residency training (six years includes two additional years for acquiring a medical degree).

Are oral surgeons happy?

We asked Oral Surgeons how satisfied they are with their job. Here is what they said. 74% of them said they were satisfied with their job and 82% said they find that their job makes the world a better place or helps to make someone else’s life better.

Is oral surgery stressful?

Little has been written on the specific impact this stress has on the oral and maxillofacial surgeon, although anecdotally, dentists have been singled out as the health care professional more likely to be subjected to severe stress, burnout, failed marriages, depression, substance abuse, and suicide.

Who makes more money orthodontist or oral surgeon?

Most oral surgeons and orthodontists work in private practice, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Oral surgeons had an average income of $217,380 in May 2011, according to the BLS, while orthodontists made an average yearly salary of $204,670.

Can dentist make 1 million a year?

Most dentists make between $100–200k per year. Some get closer to half a million or so. None, save perhaps in Dubai, make over $1M per year.

What is the highest-paid surgeon?

The highest-paid physician specialties Specialists in plastic surgery earned the highest physician salary in 2020 — an average of $526,000. Orthopedics/orthopedic surgery is the next-highest specialty ($511,000 annually), followed by cardiology at $459,000 annually.

What is the difference between an oral surgeon and a maxillofacial surgeon?

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon has more advanced medical training than an oral surgeon and has the knowledge and certification to perform more procedures in more areas of the face. Oral surgeons are so called because their practices are confined almost entirely to treating conditions within the mouth.

How hard is it to be an oral surgeon?

The amount of time it takes to train to become an oral surgeon is lengthy. Four years of undergrad work, four years of dental school and four to six years of residency is a long time. Surgery within the oral cavity and maxillofacial area is often very complex and can be high pressure.

How long do oral and maxillofacial surgeons work?

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons often work very long hours. Surgery within the oral cavity and maxillofacial area is often very intricate and complex. Oral surgeons may also need to be on call for emergencies that require immediate treatment.

What’s the job outlook for an oral surgeon?

The job outlook for positions in the dentistry profession, including Oral Surgeons, is expected to grow at a faster than average rate when compared to other professions. Dentistry jobs are expected to increase by 16 percent through the year 2022.

What’s the best way to become an oral surgeon?

Individuals who want to become an Oral Surgeon must take the entrance exam, called the Dental Admission Test to apply for dental school. Individuals are encouraged to take this entrance exam during their junior year of college.

Where did oral and maxillofacial surgery come from?

Oral and maxillofacial surgery developed out of the need for special management of facial injuries, especially broken jaws sustained by servicemen during the two world wars.