Oral surgery

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is a specialty of dentistry.

To specialize in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in the United States, a graduate of dental school must attend either a four-year or a six-year residency program. The four-year programs grant a certification of specialty training in oral and maxillofacial surgery. The six-year programs grant certification plus a doctorate degree in medicine (MD).

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are well prepared to perform the full scope of the specialty, which encompasses the diagnosis, surgical and related management of diseases, injuries and defects of both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the oral and maxillofacial regions. This includes preventive, reconstructive or emergency care for the teeth, mouth, jaws and facial structures.