Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMS) is a unique dental specialty that requires extensive training and education. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons like Dr John Won are specialists who diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of conditions affecting the facial complex and skeleton, including the jaws and oral cavity. The pathway to becoming an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon is rigorous and involves several stages of education and training that ensure these professionals are proficient in both dental and surgical skills.
Educational Foundation and Dental School
The journey begins with a solid educational foundation in the sciences. Aspiring Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons must first complete a bachelor’s degree, often with a focus on pre-dental or pre-medical studies. Courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics are fundamental in preparing for dental school admission. Additionally, students should gain hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work in dental or medical settings.
Following their undergraduate education, candidates must attend an accredited dental school, where they will earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. Dental school typically lasts four years and combines rigorous coursework with clinical training. Students learn about dental anatomy, pathology, radiology, and patient management while developing foundational skills in various dental procedures.
Residency and Advanced Training
After obtaining their DDS or DMD degree, the next step is to enter an OMS residency program, which is essential for specialized training. These residency programs generally span four to six years, depending on the country and specific program structure. Residency is highly competitive, requiring candidates to demonstrate superior academic performance, clinical skills, and a strong commitment to the specialty.
During the residency, trainees undergo comprehensive training in maxillofacial surgery, anesthesia, oncology, cosmetic facial surgery, and other related areas. Residents work closely with experienced surgeons in hospitals and clinics, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in managing complex surgical cases. This period of training is intense and includes performing surgeries, managing inpatient care, and participating in research activities.
Board Certification and Continuous Education
Like Dr John Won, upon completing a residency program, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons must achieve board certification to practice independently. In the United States, this involves passing the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) examination. Board certification is a rigorous process that includes both written and oral exams designed to test the candidate’s knowledge, clinical skills, and judgment.
To maintain certification and stay current with advancements in the field, surgeons are required to engage in continuous education throughout their careers. This may include attending professional conferences, participating in workshops, and completing additional coursework. Continuous education ensures that surgeons remain proficient and provide the highest standard of care to their patients.
The pathway to becoming an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon like Dr John Won is demanding and requires a significant investment of time and effort. It begins with a strong educational foundation, followed by dental school, an intensive residency program, and board certification. Continuous education and professional development are essential to maintain expertise in this ever-evolving field. Those who embark on this journey are rewarded with the opportunity to make a profound impact on their patients’ lives by addressing complex dental and facial conditions with precision and care.