Career profile · live from the Careermash careers engine
Career profile

Oral Surgeon

In South Africa, oral surgeons are vital healthcare professionals who specialise in surgical procedures involving the mouth, jaw, and face. This career path is both rewarding and in high demand, particularly in urban areas where cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries are increasingly sought after. Oral surgeons in South Africa are respected for their expertise and play a crucial role in enhancing patients' quality of life through surgical interventions.
Degree usually required
AI impact: low££££ payUni route
0
AI impact
how much AI is reshaping it
Ottalie · your guide
Curious about being a oral surgeon? Here's the honest picture - what you'd really do, what you'd earn, and every way in. No need to decide anything yet.

What you'd actually do

Oral surgeons in South Africa perform a variety of surgical procedures, including wisdom tooth extractions, jaw realignment, and treatment of oral diseases. They work collaboratively with other dental professionals to create tailored treatment plans for patients. The role demands a combination of technical skill and empathetic patient care, ensuring that patients feel supported and informed throughout their surgical experience.
1Conducting surgical extractions and corrective jaw surgeries.
2Collaborating with dental teams to develop treatment plans.
3Providing comprehensive post-operative care and patient education.

Career progression & pay

01
Getting in

Junior Oral Surgeon

R1,200,000
BDS/DDS and completion of an oral surgery residency
As a junior oral surgeon, you will assist in surgeries and manage patient care under supervision.
02
Building up

Mid-Level Oral Surgeon

R1,800,000
3-5 years of experience
You will perform a variety of surgical procedures independently and start building your own patient base.
03
At the top

Senior Oral Surgeon

R2,500,000+
Extensive experience and possibly board certification
In this role, you will lead surgical teams and may also engage in teaching and research.

Degrees that lead here via Medicine and Dentistry

Apprenticeships that lead here

Organisations in this field

Royal London Hospital
Offers a comprehensive range of oral and maxillofacial surgery services.

How to get in - your routes

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Career data: role, pay and progression profiles built for Careermash's careers engine; AI-impact estimates from Anthropic's observed AI-usage telemetry and OpenAI's AI Jobs Transition Framework. Course data: HESA / Discover Uni, including Graduate Outcomes, LEO and the National Student Survey. Apprenticeships: IfATE-published standards, approved only.

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