Board-Certified Oral Surgeon in Medford & Grants Pass OR

James D. Savage, DDS

For more than two decades, Dr. James D. Savage has been helping patients in Southern Oregon feel comfortable, informed, and confident about their oral surgery care. Known for his calm demeanor, attention to detail, and genuine compassion for patients, Dr. Savage combines advanced surgical expertise with a patient-first approach that focuses on clear communication and thoughtful treatment planning.

Dr. Savage joined Associates for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in 1999 and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, a distinction that reflects the highest standards of training, knowledge, and clinical skill in the specialty.

Education & Surgical Training

Dr. Savage earned his Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University before attending the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, where he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree.

He then completed an intensive four-year residency in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio, where he trained alongside physicians and surgeons in multiple specialties, including:

• Anesthesia

• General surgery

• Plastic surgery

• Otolaryngology (ENT)

• Emergency medicine

During residency he received the Eugene P. Wenzke Award for Outstanding Resident, recognizing his clinical skill and leadership.

Following his residency, Dr. Savage served as Senior Instructor of Surgery in the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Case Western Reserve School of Medicine and MetroHealth Medical Center, where he helped train future oral surgeons before transitioning to private practice.

Today he provides care for patients throughout Medford, Grants Pass, and Southern Oregon, and is on staff at Providence Medford Medical Center and Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center.

Areas of Expertise

Dr. Savage’s clinical interests include:

• Dental implants

• Facial trauma treatment

• Wisdom tooth removal

• Bone grafting and reconstructive procedures

He maintains certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) to ensure the highest level of safety for surgical patients.

Dr. Savage is also an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Oregon Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Academy of Osseointegration, American Dental Association, and others committed to advancing oral surgery care.

Life Outside the Office

Outside of surgery, Dr. Savage enjoys spending time with his wife, Jackie, and their four children. When he’s not in the operating room, you’ll often find him on the golf course, traveling, or enjoying the outdoors in Southern Oregon.

A proud Oklahoma State football fan, he also enjoys good food—especially a perfectly cooked steak (particularly when it’s grilled by his colleague Dr. Raj).

Dr. Savage has participated in international mission trips providing surgical care, reflecting his belief that healthcare should make a difference both locally and globally.

He is also active in his community and faith, including involvement with the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Medical Association.

Whether treating a routine wisdom tooth case or a complex surgical condition, Dr. Savage believes every patient deserves clear explanations, compassionate care, and the confidence that they are in capable hands.