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Service Branches
Work Environment
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons work in hospitals and dental clinics on land and aboard ships.
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Military Status
Officer
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Average Military Salary
$106,373
Overview
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons perform surgery and related procedures on the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial regions to treat diseases, injuries, or defects, and to improve function or appearance. They treat various diseases, injuries, and defects in the head, neck, face, jaws, and the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region. They also cover a much broader scope of practice, including cleft and craniofacial disorders, oral cancer, jaw reconstruction, snoring and sleep apnea, dental implants, and facial cosmetic surgery. These surgeons also treat and repair oral and maxillofacial injuries sustained in combat.
Military Training
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
Helpful Attributes
- Desire to help others
- Good eye-hand coordination
- Interest in work requiring accuracy and attention to detail
Related Civilian Careers
- Prosthodontists
- Dentists, General
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