Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
An Oral Surgeon, also known as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, is a specialized dentist who performs surgical procedures on the mouth, jaws, teeth, gums, neck, and head, including procedures such as tooth extractions and corrective jaw surgery. They also treat diseases, injuries, and defects of these areas.
Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Internship/residency
Projected Growth: 5.0% (above average)
Annual job openings: 200
Direct AI exposure: 0% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 16% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Dentists. According to the wage tables, average income is $110K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $33K per year | $59K per year | $110K per year | $156K per year | $228K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $45K above the national average. | ||||
Oral Surgeons work in various settings, including private practices, hospitals, and specialized clinics. Their work environment is highly sterile and typically involves sophisticated surgical equipment. They collaborate with other dental and medical professionals and may be required to work irregular hours, including on-call shifts for emergency surgeries.
Oral Surgeons play a critical role in providing advanced dental care. Their work extends beyond general dentistry to include complex surgical procedures that require a high level of expertise. They must be proficient in various surgical techniques and in managing anesthesia. Oral Surgeons need to have excellent manual dexterity, precision, and the ability to focus for long periods.
The profession demands a deep understanding of oral and facial anatomy, pathology, and radiology. Oral Surgeons are also responsible for managing patients' post-operative care and possible complications arising from surgery. Their role involves not only technical surgical skills but also good patient management and communication skills to explain procedures and provide reassurance.
Oral surgery is a demanding field, both physically and mentally, but it is also one of the most highly regarded specializations in dentistry. It offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on patients' lives, whether it's improving their appearance, speech, ability to eat, or overall health.
Becoming an Oral Surgeon requires extensive education: a 4-year undergraduate degree, a 4-year dental degree (DMD or DDS), followed by a 4-6 year residency program in oral and maxillofacial surgery. This totals approximately 12-14 years of post-secondary education.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
