Become an Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a special field of dentistry concentrating on injuries, diseases and defects of many areas of the head and neck. It also includes the mouth, jaws and face. It takes years of study to become an oral maxillofacial surgeon. For those who wish to have a career in dentistry but want to go beyond braces and cleanings, oral maxillofacial surgery is the way to go.
Instructions
1. Complete an undergraduate program in dentistry, then attend and graduate from an accredited dental school.
2. Enroll in a 4-year or 6-year surgical residency program for the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation. During this program you complete rotations in general surgery, attend lectures and tend to inpatient and outpatient cases.
3. Apply to become certified as an oral maxillofacial surgeon by completing an application and providing proof of having completed the educational requirements to the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, enabling you to become eligible to take the examination given by this board.
4. Pass both a written and oral examination to become a board-certified oral maxillofacial surgeon. You must pass a written examination every ten years to keep your American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery certification.
5. Continue your development by attending training seminars and lectures, even after you are certified and in practice. Your success depends on keeping up with the latest developments in this field.
Tags: oral maxillofacial, oral maxillofacial surgeon, American Board, American Board Oral, Become Oral