Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Salary Guide 2025: $352,220 Median, 4.1% Growth
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons earn a national median salary of $352,220 per year, according to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The mean annual wage is $346,490, or roughly $169 per hour. But earnings vary dramatically: the bottom 10% make $86,250 or less, while the top 10% pull in over $622,640.
How much Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons earn
The typical salary range for oral and maxillofacial surgeons is huge — from $86,250 at the 10th percentile to $622,640 at the 90th percentile. That wide spread reflects differences in practice setting, geographic location, years of experience, and whether a surgeon owns a private practice or works in a hospital or group.
Most surgeons fall into the middle range, with the median sitting at $352,220. That means half earn more and half earn less. Experience matters: early-career surgeons often earn less until they build a referral base or buy into a practice.
Pay by state
Where you practice makes a huge difference. Pennsylvania tops the list at $553,740 average annual wage, followed by Minnesota ($475,250), Rhode Island ($414,060), Virginia ($403,430), and Colorado ($360,820).
On the lower end, Georgia averages $129,010, Michigan $97,040, and Illinois $70,220. The wide state variation reflects local cost of living, demand for specialized surgical services, and the concentration of hospital vs. private practices.
How to become Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
It’s a long path — typically 12 to 14 years after high school.
Steps include:
- Complete a bachelor’s degree with pre-dental or science coursework (4 years).
- Graduate from an ADA-accredited dental school (DDS or DMD, 4 years).
- Complete a hospital-based residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery (4 to 6 years); some programs include an MD or additional training.
- Pass the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS) certification exam.
- Obtain a state dental license; most states require a separate OMFS permit.
Job outlook
Employment of oral and maxillofacial surgeons is projected to grow 4.1% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS expects about 200 job openings each year over the decade, mostly from retirements and practice expansions.
There are currently 4,910 oral and maxillofacial surgeons employed nationwide, making it a small but specialized field. Demand is driven by an aging population requiring complex tooth extractions, dental implants, and facial reconstructive surgery.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest-paying state for oral and maxillofacial surgeons?
Pennsylvania pays the highest average wage at $553,740 per year, followed by Minnesota ($475,250), Rhode Island ($414,060), Virginia ($403,430), and Colorado ($360,820).
How many years does it take to become an oral and maxillofacial surgeon?
It takes about 12 to 14 years after high school: a 4-year bachelor's degree, 4 years of dental school, and a 4- to 6-year hospital-based residency.
Is the job outlook for oral and maxillofacial surgeons good?
Yes; employment is projected to grow 4.1% from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 200 new openings each year due to retirements and growing demand for surgical dental care.
What is the salary range for oral and maxillofacial surgeons?
The typical range is from $86,250 (10th percentile) to $622,640 (90th percentile), with a median of $352,220.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons data.