<p>How do non-university departments of oral and maxillofacial surgery see the future? Which problems and challenges do they face? And what chances and opportunities do they see? This article addresses these questions in the context of the current situation and in light of foreseeable future developments. Without question, the inevitable impact of the hospital reform (<i>Krankenhausversorgungsverbesserungsgesetz</i>, KHVVG) is forcing considerable rethinking at the political level and among hospital operators. The resulting economic questions and constraints limit the room for maneuver, also particularly due to the priority given to outpatient care in healthcare policy. On the other hand, nationwide care of the population according to current standards must be assured quantitatively and qualitatively. The concern regarding adequate continuing education in non-university departments is closely linked to the difficulty of finding enough suitable staff. The concerns and interests of young physicians must thus be taken into account, which is only possible through active and cooperative engagement—together as the DGMKG in its entirety. The opportunities and chances are manifold; the future is not to be feared!</p>