1 answer
Rayan
Student
Newark
1
Question
Updated
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What steps should I take in becoming an Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon after high school? ?
I am currently a Junior in high school and I'm looking into the dentistry field and I've come to like it a lot. Although, I fear I may fold under the pressure.
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1 answer
Johnson Tran
Tutor
101
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Johnson’s Answer
Becoming an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon (OMS) takes time, but it's worth it. Since you're a high school junior interested in dentistry and a bit worried about the pressure, here's a simple guide:
1. Finish high school strong
Focus on Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy, and advanced math. If your school offers health-science classes, take them. They'll help make college easier.
2. Get your Bachelor’s degree (4 years)
You can major in anything, but include the required dental school classes. Shadow dentists or oral surgeons and join a pre-dental club to see if you like the field.
3. Take the DAT
The Dental Admission Test (DAT) is needed for dental school. It covers biology, chemistry, and reading comprehension.
4. Dental School (4 years)
You'll earn a DDS or DMD and learn about anatomy, pathology, and surgery. This is when you'll decide if surgery is for you.
5. OMS Residency (4–6 years)
This is intensive training in facial trauma, jaw surgery, anesthesia, and reconstruction, turning you into an oral surgeon.
6. Optional Fellowship (1 year)
Specialize further in areas like cosmetic facial surgery or head and neck oncology.
7. Board Certification
After residency, pass your board exams to become a certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.
Feeling pressure is normal. Even confident surgeons felt that way once. The key is learning to manage it. Develop good study habits, ask for help when needed, and take it one step at a time. Focus on being a high school student today. You can do this!
1. Finish high school strong
Focus on Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy, and advanced math. If your school offers health-science classes, take them. They'll help make college easier.
2. Get your Bachelor’s degree (4 years)
You can major in anything, but include the required dental school classes. Shadow dentists or oral surgeons and join a pre-dental club to see if you like the field.
3. Take the DAT
The Dental Admission Test (DAT) is needed for dental school. It covers biology, chemistry, and reading comprehension.
4. Dental School (4 years)
You'll earn a DDS or DMD and learn about anatomy, pathology, and surgery. This is when you'll decide if surgery is for you.
5. OMS Residency (4–6 years)
This is intensive training in facial trauma, jaw surgery, anesthesia, and reconstruction, turning you into an oral surgeon.
6. Optional Fellowship (1 year)
Specialize further in areas like cosmetic facial surgery or head and neck oncology.
7. Board Certification
After residency, pass your board exams to become a certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.
Feeling pressure is normal. Even confident surgeons felt that way once. The key is learning to manage it. Develop good study habits, ask for help when needed, and take it one step at a time. Focus on being a high school student today. You can do this!