Dual-degree Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Training in the United States: "Back to the Future".

ABSTRACT

In the present report, we trace the history of education and training of oral and maxillofacial surgeons as it has evolved from the mid-19th century to the present. We consider the effects of the discovery of ether anesthesia, the separation of medicine and dentistry, and other milestones such as antisepsis (Lister), antibiotics (Fleming) and surgical progress during wartime. The main emphasis, however, is on the background, development, and implementation of current dual-degree oral and maxillofacial surgery training programs, the first 5 programs, the pioneer advocates for this training, and progress and challenges for the future.