Oral Surgeon Dental Nurse

What does a maxillofacial surgical dental assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

A maxillofacial surgical dental assistant works closely with maxillofacial surgeons and is responsible for assisting during surgical procedures in the mouth, preparing patients, sterilizing instruments, and managing follow-up care. The role also includes administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, documenting patient information, and coordinating care flows. The work is typically performed at specialist clinics within dentistry or at hospital maxillofacial departments, where the pace can be high and the environment characterized by close teamwork. Hygiene standards and precision are central, as well as the ability to meet patients who may feel anxious about surgical treatments.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for maxillofacial surgical dental assistants has been clearly positive. In 2022, the average salary was 29,700 SEK per month, increasing to 31 200 SEK in 2023 — a rise of about 5%. Between 2023 and 2024, salaries continued to rise and reached 33 500 SEK, corresponding to an additional 7% increase. This trend is linked to increased demand for qualified dental care staff and a growing focus on specialist competence within maxillofacial surgery. Although the profession is part of a broader group of dental assistants, specialization in maxillofacial surgery has contributed to maintaining stable and competitive salary growth compared to similar roles in dentistry.

Maxillofacial surgical dental assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 500 SEK / month
• Lowest salary: 27,300 SEK (men), 28,900 SEK (women)
• Highest salary: 38,100 SEK (men), 37,800 SEK (women)
• Hourly wage (average): 201 SEK
• Gender differences: Women 33 500 SEK, men 30 200 SEK (women earn 111 % of what men do)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but generally higher salaries in metropolitan areas

Education and qualifications

To work as a maxillofacial surgical dental assistant, a basic dental assistant education is required, supplemented with specialist training or experience in maxillofacial surgery. The educational path includes both theoretical and practical components, with the ability to assist during surgical procedures and handle advanced equipment being central. Practical training at a clinic is common and provides valuable experience for future professional practice.

• Dental assistant training: Vocational college, approximately 1.5 years
• Specialist training: Courses in maxillofacial surgery are recommended
• Practical training: Mandatory at a dental or maxillofacial clinic
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, often with a focus on healthcare and care services
• Certification: No national license, but employers value documented experience

Common benefits and compensations

Maxillofacial surgical dental assistants are often covered by collective agreements that include occupational pensions, wellness contributions, extra vacation days, and health insurance. Many employers also offer wellness subsidies, professional development, and flexible working hours. Other common benefits include subsidized meals, work clothing, and access to employee support such as counseling and health check-ups.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a maxillofacial surgical dental assistant is relatively balanced, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service. The number of available jobs is stable, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges in the profession mainly involve requirements for specialized competence and experience from surgical work, which can limit the pool of qualified candidates. The work can be physically and mentally demanding, especially during urgent procedures or when patient flow is high. Digitalization and new technology also require continuous retraining to maintain competitiveness in the job market.

Tips for those aspiring to become a maxillofacial surgical dental assistant

To succeed as a maxillofacial surgical dental assistant, it is beneficial to combine attention to detail with the ability to handle stressful situations, as surgical procedures demand full concentration and precision. A friendly attitude and empathy facilitate interactions with patients who may feel anxious about treatments. Being flexible and able to quickly adapt to changes in the workday is a significant asset, especially when urgent cases arise. It is also valuable to demonstrate initiative and a willingness to learn new techniques or methods, as developments in dentistry progress rapidly. Collaboration skills are crucial, as the work is performed closely with both dentists and other healthcare staff. For those looking to stand out in the job market, actively seeking internships in maxillofacial surgery and further training in the field is recommended.

Key facts about maxillofacial surgical dental assistants

• Education level: Vocational college, about 1.5 years + specialization
• Work environment: Hospitals and specialist clinics within dentistry
• Typical employment: Full-time, daytime
• Demand: Moderate opportunities, stable job market
• Number of available jobs: 375 within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities open for further development within maxillofacial surgery, such as becoming a team leader or responsible for training new colleagues. Some choose to deepen their expertise by participating in research projects or working on quality development in dentistry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the job market is expected to remain stable, with demand for maxillofacial surgical dental assistants remaining unchanged over the next five years. Specialization and experience from advanced surgery can provide advantages in salary negotiations and career advancement. Further education, such as in leadership or administration, can also lead to supervisory roles or work in educational settings.

Common questions about maxillofacial surgical dental assistants

• What does a maxillofacial surgical dental assistant earn?
  - The average salary is 33 500 SEK per month, with salaries ranging from 27,300 SEK to 38,100 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become a maxillofacial surgical dental assistant?
  - A dental assistant education at vocational college, approximately 1.5 years, along with additional courses or training in maxillofacial surgery.
• What is the job market outlook for maxillofacial surgical dental assistants?
  - Opportunities are considered moderate, and demand is expected to be stable over the next five years.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Accuracy, empathy, stress resilience, and good teamwork skills are especially valuable.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 33 500 SEK while men earn 30 200 SEK, meaning women earn 111 % of men's wages.
• What benefits are common for a maxillofacial surgical dental assistant?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness contributions, extra vacation days, and professional development.
• What are the career opportunities in the field?
  - Opportunities include becoming a team leader, trainer, or further specializing in other dental fields.