Top 25 Oral Surgeons Across the US
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What is an Oral Surgeon?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
An oral surgeon, formally known as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS), is a dental specialist who performs surgical procedures on the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. These highly trained specialists treat a wide range of conditions including impacted wisdom teeth, dental implant placement, jaw misalignment, facial trauma, oral cancers, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Oral surgeons are uniquely qualified as they complete both dental school and medical-surgical residency training, giving them expertise in both dentistry and surgery.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming an oral surgeon requires extensive education and training:
- 4 years of dental school to earn a DDS or DMD degree
- 4-6 years of hospital-based oral and maxillofacial surgery residency
- Many programs include medical school training with MD degree
- Total of 12-14 years of education and training beyond high school
- Residency includes rotations in general surgery, anesthesia, plastic surgery, trauma, and intensive care
- Optional fellowships in cosmetic facial surgery, head and neck oncology, or craniofacial surgery
Board Certification: American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS). Certification requires completion of an accredited residency program and passing comprehensive written and oral examinations. Diplomates must maintain certification through continuing education and periodic re-examination.
When Should You See an Oral Surgeon?
You should consider seeing an oral surgeon if:
- You have impacted wisdom teeth causing pain, infection, or crowding
- You need dental implants to replace missing teeth
- You have a jaw misalignment affecting eating, breathing, or appearance
- You have suffered facial trauma including broken jaw or facial bones
- You have a cyst, tumor, or suspicious lesion in your mouth or jaw
- You experience chronic TMJ pain not responding to conservative treatment
- You need bone grafting for dental implants or jaw reconstruction
- You have severe dental infections requiring surgical drainage
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
Oral Surgeons are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that oral surgeons help patients manage.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Third molars that fail to fully erupt through the gums, becoming trapped in the jaw bone and causing pain, infection, damage to adjacent teeth, or cyst formation.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oral surgeons remove impacted wisdom teeth through surgical extraction, using appropriate anesthesia (local, IV sedation, or general). They navigate around nerves and sinuses, remove bone as needed, and ensure complete removal to prevent future problems.
Dental Implant Placement
Surgical placement of titanium posts into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots, which support crowns, bridges, or dentures for permanent tooth replacement.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oral surgeons precisely place dental implants using 3D imaging guidance, perform bone grafting when needed, and ensure proper integration with the jawbone. They manage complex cases involving multiple implants or compromised bone.
Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery
Corrective surgery to realign the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both to correct significant bite problems, breathing issues, or facial asymmetry.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oral surgeons work with orthodontists in planned surgical correction, repositioning jaw bones and securing them with titanium plates and screws. This corrects function and often dramatically improves facial appearance and breathing.
Facial Trauma and Fractures
Injuries to the face including broken jaw, cheekbone, eye socket, and nose, often resulting from accidents, sports injuries, falls, or assaults.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oral surgeons repair facial fractures using internal fixation with titanium plates and screws, often working through incisions hidden inside the mouth. They restore facial structure, proper bite alignment, and function while minimizing visible scarring.
TMJ Surgery
Surgical treatment for temporomandibular joint disorders when conservative treatments fail, including arthroscopy, arthroplasty, or joint replacement.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oral surgeons perform minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery to repair damaged joints, or open joint surgery for more severe cases. Options include washing out the joint, removing damaged tissue, reshaping bone, or in severe cases, total joint replacement.
Bone Grafting
Surgical procedures to rebuild or regenerate jawbone that has been lost due to tooth loss, periodontal disease, trauma, or tumor removal, often in preparation for dental implants.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oral surgeons harvest bone from the patient's own body, use processed donor bone, or employ synthetic bone materials to rebuild the jaw. Techniques include sinus lifts, ridge augmentation, and socket preservation to create adequate bone for implants.
Oral Pathology and Lesion Removal
Diagnosis and surgical treatment of abnormal growths, cysts, tumors, and precancerous or cancerous lesions in the mouth, jaws, and associated structures.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oral surgeons perform biopsies to diagnose suspicious lesions, remove benign cysts and tumors, and surgically treat oral cancers. They work with oncologists for comprehensive cancer treatment and perform reconstructive surgery after tumor removal.
Cleft Lip and Palate Repair
Surgical correction of congenital facial differences affecting the lip and/or roof of the mouth, requiring staged procedures from infancy through adolescence.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Oral surgeons are key members of cleft teams, performing bone grafting to the jaw, corrective jaw surgery in adolescence, and coordinating with plastic surgeons, speech therapists, and orthodontists for comprehensive care throughout childhood.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Oral Surgeons treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified oral surgeon for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting an oral surgeon.
Your First Visit
- Comprehensive review of dental and medical history, including all medications and allergies
- Clinical examination of teeth, jaws, face, and neck
- Advanced imaging such as panoramic X-ray, CT scan, or 3D cone beam scan
- Discussion of diagnosis and all treatment options
- Explanation of surgical procedure, anesthesia options, risks, and recovery
- Treatment planning and cost estimates
- Initial consultation typically lasts 30-60 minutes
Diagnosis & Testing
- Clinical examination of oral cavity, jaws, face, and bite alignment
- Panoramic X-ray providing full view of teeth, jaws, and sinuses
- 3D cone beam CT scan for detailed bone and tooth anatomy
- Biopsy of suspicious lesions with pathology analysis
- TMJ imaging including MRI when joint problems suspected
- Coordination with orthodontist for jaw surgery planning
- Sleep study referral when sleep apnea is a concern
Treatment Options
- Pre-operative instructions including fasting requirements and medication adjustments
- Anesthesia administration: local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia based on procedure
- Surgical procedure performed in oral surgery office or hospital setting
- Post-operative recovery room monitoring until safe discharge
- Detailed written home care instructions for wound care, diet, and medications
- Pain management with prescription medications and anti-inflammatory drugs
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing at 1 week and 2-4 weeks post-surgery
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your oral surgeon provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Oral Surgeon
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting an oral surgeon.
Credentials to Verify
- Board certification by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS)
- Completion of an accredited 4-6 year oral and maxillofacial surgery residency
- Active dental license in your state with specialty registration
- Medical license if dual MD/DDS trained
- Proper anesthesia permits for in-office sedation and general anesthesia
- Hospital privileges at accredited medical centers
Important Considerations
- Experience with your specific procedure (ask about case volume)
- Surgical facility accreditation and emergency protocols
- Anesthesia training and monitoring capabilities
- Before and after photos for cosmetic or reconstructive procedures
- Clear communication about risks, alternatives, and expected outcomes
- Emergency availability and after-hours contact for complications
- Patient reviews and referrals from other dental professionals
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple oral surgeons before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing an oral surgeon can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$100-$300 (consultation with X-rays)
Follow-up Visit
$50-$150
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Dental insurance typically covers wisdom teeth extraction and some oral surgery procedures
- Medical insurance may cover jaw surgery when medically necessary (not cosmetic)
- Facial trauma treatment is usually covered by medical insurance
- Dental implants may have limited dental insurance coverage but are often not covered by medical insurance
- Pre-authorization is frequently required for major procedures
- Anesthesia fees are often billed separately from surgical fees
Medicare Information
Original Medicare (Part B) covers oral surgery when it is medically necessary and related to the treatment of illness or injury. This includes facial trauma repair, jaw tumor removal, and surgery to treat infections. Medicare typically does not cover dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, or routine tooth extractions unless part of a covered medical condition. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer expanded dental benefits.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your oral surgeon is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Oral Surgeon
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking an oral surgeon.
How many of these procedures have you performed and what is your complication rate?
What type of anesthesia do you recommend and what are my options?
What are the risks specific to my procedure and how do you minimize them?
How long will the procedure take and when can I return to work or school?
What should I expect during recovery and what restrictions will I have?
What are the signs of complications I should watch for at home?
Is your surgical facility accredited and what emergency equipment do you have?
What is the total cost and what does my insurance cover?
Do I need to arrange a driver and how long after can I drive again?
What happens if I have a problem after hours or on the weekend?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Know when symptoms require immediate attention versus a scheduled appointment.
While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with a oral surgeon, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- Uncontrolled bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure after 30 minutes - may indicate post-operative hemorrhage
- Severe swelling rapidly increasing or spreading to neck and affecting breathing or swallowing - may indicate airway-threatening infection
- High fever (over 101.5F) with facial swelling and difficulty opening mouth - may indicate spreading infection requiring hospitalization
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness spreading beyond the surgical area - may indicate nerve injury
- Severe headache, neck stiffness, and fever after jaw surgery - may indicate rare but serious infection
- Signs of severe allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives, facial swelling beyond surgical area
EMERGENCY
Call 911 or nearest ER
URGENT
Doctor or urgent care
NON-URGENT
Regular appointment
Oral Surgeon vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
Oral Surgeon vs. General Dentist
General dentists provide comprehensive dental care including simple extractions, fillings, and cleanings. Oral surgeons have 4-6 additional years of hospital-based surgical training for complex extractions, jaw surgery, and facial trauma. General dentists refer complex surgical cases to oral surgeons.
Oral Surgeon vs. Periodontist
Periodontists specialize in treating gum disease and placing dental implants. Oral surgeons perform more complex surgical procedures including impacted tooth removal, jaw surgery, and facial trauma repair. Both can place dental implants, but oral surgeons handle more challenging cases requiring bone grafting or sinus surgery.
Oral Surgeon vs. Plastic Surgeon
Both specialize in facial surgery, but from different training backgrounds. Oral surgeons focus on the jaws, mouth, and facial skeleton through dental and surgical training. Plastic surgeons focus on soft tissue and skin through general surgery training. For facial trauma, both may be involved: oral surgeons for jaw and dental injuries, plastic surgeons for soft tissue reconstruction.
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about oral surgeons is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about oral surgeons
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
With modern anesthesia, you should not feel pain during the procedure. Most patients choose IV sedation or general anesthesia and have no memory of the surgery. After surgery, you can expect some discomfort for 3-7 days, which is well-managed with prescription pain medication and anti-inflammatory drugs. Most patients are back to normal activities within a week.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants have an excellent long-term success rate of over 95% at 10 years. With proper care including good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, implants can last a lifetime. The crown attached to the implant may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear. Factors affecting longevity include bone quality, oral hygiene, smoking, and overall health.
What is the recovery time for jaw surgery?
Jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) requires a significant recovery period. Most patients take 2-4 weeks off work or school. Initial healing with a liquid or soft diet takes 4-6 weeks. Numbness may persist for several months. Full bone healing takes 3-6 months, and final results are seen at 9-12 months. You will work with your orthodontist during recovery to fine-tune your bite.
What is the difference between an oral surgeon and a general dentist for extractions?
General dentists can perform simple tooth extractions, but oral surgeons have 4-6 additional years of surgical training. Oral surgeons handle complex extractions including impacted teeth, teeth with curved roots, and patients with medical conditions. They are also trained to provide IV sedation and general anesthesia, which general dentists typically cannot offer. For wisdom teeth, surgical extractions, or anxious patients, an oral surgeon provides specialized expertise.
Do I need to be put to sleep for oral surgery?
Not necessarily. Many oral surgery procedures can be performed with local anesthesia (numbing injections) alone. However, oral surgeons offer IV sedation (twilight sleep) and general anesthesia for patient comfort, especially for longer procedures, multiple extractions, or anxious patients. Your surgeon will discuss options based on your procedure complexity, medical history, and personal preference. IV sedation is most common for wisdom teeth removal.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards