Explore Careers

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

Explore Careers

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

Health Science
Enlisted Role

Service Branches with this Role

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  • Air Force logo
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What do Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons do in the Military?

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform surgery and related procedures on the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial regions to treat diseases and injuries, and improve function or appearance.

Where do Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons work?

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons work in hospitals and dental clinics on land and aboard ships.

How much do they make?

Median Military Salary

This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$111,347

Military Salary Range

This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$23,673 - $358,842

How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary

Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.

  • Set based on rank and years of service.
  • Paid every month.

Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.

  • Tax-free payments.
  • Varies by location and family status.

Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.

  • Based on specialized roles.
  • Varies by position and duty.

What training do Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons gain in the Military?

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons have a doctorate degree in dental medicine or dental surgery. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons who participate in military-sponsored residency programs receive renowned education. All dentists in the Military gain exposure to nearly every major facet of dentistry in a wide range of healthcare environments. Like other healthcare officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, the military health system, and leadership development.

  • Preventive dentistry
  • Dental office procedures
  • Radiology (X-ray) techniques
  • Dental hygiene procedures

Military Training for Enlisted Service members

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.

What skills help Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons succeed?

  • Desire to help others
  • Good eye-hand coordination
  • Interest in work requiring accuracy and attention to detail

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Dental Hygienists
  • Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric
  • Prosthodontists
  • Orthodontists
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
  • Dentists, General
  • Orthotists and Prosthetists

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