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History of the Southwest Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

Established on October 24, 1929, in Abilene, Texas, as the Texas Society of Oral Surgeons and Exodontists, the Southwest Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons is the oldest regional society within the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. The Society held its first official meeting on May 6, 1930, in Fort Worth, Texas, with Dr. A. C. Sloan serving as its first President.

On May 21, 1945, the organization officially changed its name to the Southwest Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. At that time, its membership encompassed Arizona, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Over the years, Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming were added, further expanding the Society’s regional representation.

The Society’s objectives have remained rooted in advancing the specialty and fostering professional fellowship. Its stated purposes are to promote and advance the science of oral and maxillofacial surgery through education, research, professional services, and public relations; to cooperate with other dental and medical specialists; to promote unity and harmony within the profession; and to cultivate fellowship and social interaction among its members.

The Annual Meeting, traditionally held each spring, continues to embody these longstanding principles. The meeting features the renowned Byrd-Tilson-Walker Residents Day Program, and the distinguished Keynote Lecture, and a variety of social events that celebrate the Society’s legacy, camaraderie, and traditions. These programs provide opportunities for education, professional exchange, mentorship, and fellowship among oral and maxillofacial surgeons throughout the region.

In 2025, the Society expanded its regional representation by incorporating the states formerly represented by the Midwestern Society: Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

Today, the Southwest Society’s state components include Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming.

Nearly a century after its founding, the Southwest Society continues to honor the vision of its founders while advancing the specialty of oral and maxillofacial surgery through education, leadership, professional collaboration, and fellowship. Its enduring traditions and commitment to future generations remain central to the Society’s identity.