Dr. Derek L. Vajda

DMD, MD

Oral Surgery

  • Oral Surgeon, Santa Monica | Beverly Hills Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants

  • Medical Staff at St John’s hospital in Santa Monica

Dr Vajda
Training and Education

Residency:
University of California, Los Angeles
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Medical School:
University of California, Los Angeles
Doctorate of Medicine

Dental School:
Indiana University School of Dentistry
Doctor of Dental Surgery

Dr. Derek Vajda graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology before earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from Indiana University School of Dentistry. He then pursued his Medical Degree at the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles, where he also completed a rigorous General Surgical Internship to develop advanced surgical skills.

Dr. Vajda completed his residency training in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of California, Los Angeles, one of the nation's leading programs. This comprehensive training equipped him with exceptional expertise in the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures, with a particular specialization in Orthognathic Surgery—corrective jaw surgery that addresses functional and aesthetic concerns.

Since completing his training, Dr. Vajda has been in private practice as an Oral Surgeon at the Santa Monica | Beverly Hills Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, where he delivers exceptional patient care with compassion and precision. He is also a valued member of the Medical Staff at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, contributing his expertise to the broader medical community.

Dr. Vajda maintains active memberships in prestigious professional organizations including the American Medical Association, American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. His commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by his status as a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, a distinction that reflects his dedication to maintaining the highest standards of surgical practice and patient safety.

Originally from Indiana, Dr. Vajda now calls Los Angeles home, where he balances his professional dedication with a rich personal life. An avid traveler, he enjoys exploring new destinations and cultures. He maintains an active lifestyle through regular exercise and appreciates fine dining experiences throughout the Los Angeles area. A passionate Chicago sports fan, Dr. Vajda stays connected to his Midwest roots while cherishing quality time with his family.

Dr. Vajda's unique combination of dual medical and dental degrees, extensive surgical training, and specialized expertise in orthognathic surgery positions him as a trusted expert in complex oral and maxillofacial procedures. His commitment to staying current with the latest advances in his field, combined with his patient-centered approach, ensures that every patient receives comprehensive, evidence-based care tailored to their individual needs.


Recent Posts by Dr. Derek L. Vajda

Los Angeles Oral Surgery at Santa Monica OMS

When it comes to smiles ready for the spotlight, Santa Monica Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants (Santa Monica OMS) has quietly set the stage behind some of  Los Angeles’s most radiant and camera-ready smiles for nearly 50 years. At Santa Monica OMS, oral surgery transcends routine care, it's an exceptional, personalized experience tailored for patients who expect superior outcomes. Guided by board-certified surgeons, advanced technology, and concierge-level care, Santa Monica OMS invites you into an elite circle of patients who trust their smiles to the best in Los Angeles oral surgery. Discover the unparalleled level of skill, precision, and comfort awaiting you at this premier practice.

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Los Angeles

Santa Monica OMS offers a complete range of oral and maxillofacial procedures under one roof, including dental implants, wisdom-tooth extraction, corrective jaw surgery, bone grafting, sinus lifts, and facial trauma treatments. The state-of-the-art facility features:

  • Advanced in-house CBCT imaging for detailed 3-D planning

  • Operating suites accredited to stringent hospital standards

  • Comprehensive anesthesia options, including local anesthesia, IV sedation, and general anesthesia

Meet the Surgical Team

Santa Monica OMS’s exceptional reputation stems from its highly credentialed surgical team. Each surgeon holds dual degrees in dentistry (DDS or DMD) and medicine (MD) and is board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Dr. Howard H. Park, DMD, MD

Specializing in dental implants, advanced bone grafting, and "teeth-in-a-day" full-arch restorations. Dr. Park is board-certified and serves on the faculty at UCLA, bringing extensive experience in innovative implant techniques.

Dr. Richard H. Ting, DDS, MD

Expert in corrective jaw surgery and facial-trauma reconstruction, available for emergency care through local hospitals. Dr. Ting is the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery department chair at Providence Saint John's Health Center and an anesthesia examiner for the Dental Board of California.

Dr. Gil B. Ivry, DDS, MD

Focused on TMJ disorders, nerve reconstruction, and prioritizing patient comfort during complex procedures. Dr. Ivry also specializes in treating complex oral pathologies and facial pain syndromes.

Dr. Jeffrey M. Tanner, DDS, MD

Renowned for minimally invasive wisdom-tooth extractions and ensuring comfortable, smooth recoveries. Dr. Tanner frequently lectures on pain management and is recognized for his patient-focused approach.

Dr. Derek L. Vajda, DDS, MD

Experienced in managing pathology, complex extractions, and salvage procedures for dental implants. Dr. Vajda also specializes in reconstructive solutions following implant complications, prioritizing long-term dental health.

Dr. Harry Schwartz, DMD, MD, FACS

Board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with broad expertise in facial reconstruction, implant dentistry, and surgical treatments for oral pathologies. Dr. Schwartz is recognized as a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, emphasizing excellence in patient care and surgical outcomes.

Santa Monica’s Best in Oral Surgery

Dental Implants and Full-Arch Solutions

The practice offers individual implants, bridges, and innovative All-on-Four® full-arch restorations, utilizing precise guided-surgery techniques for efficiency and accuracy. Comprehensive treatment planning ensures predictable outcomes and tailored solutions for every patient’s unique dental needs.

Wisdom-Tooth Extraction Under IV Sedation

Impacted or challenging wisdom teeth are comfortably removed in the practice's dedicated surgical suites, ensuring rapid recovery and minimal discomfort. IV sedation provides stress-free procedures, significantly reducing patient anxiety and enhancing overall comfort during surgery.

Corrective Jaw (Orthognathic) Surgery

The surgical team works alongside orthodontists to treat patients with bite discrepancies, facial asymmetry, and airway concerns, improving both function and aesthetics. Detailed virtual planning and precise surgical execution optimize results and minimize recovery time.

Sinus-Lift and Bone-Grafting Procedures

Advanced techniques are used to reinforce bone in preparation for implants, ensuring long-lasting stability and successful dental implant placement. Procedures leverage state-of-the-art materials and minimally invasive approaches to maximize patient comfort and healing.

Comprehensive Anesthesia Care

Each surgeon is fully certified to administer all levels of anesthesia, ensuring patient safety, comfort, and peace of mind throughout every procedure. Continuous monitoring and customized sedation plans guarantee optimal patient relaxation and enhanced surgical experiences.

Emergency Facial-Trauma & TMJ Management

Santa Monica OMS surgeons provide rapid response to facial trauma and TMJ emergencies, partnering with local hospitals to deliver timely, effective care. Their experience in acute interventions ensures optimal recovery outcomes, restoring patients’ health, comfort, and functionality swiftly.

What Patients Are Saying

Santa Monica OMS maintains an outstanding 4.8/5-star average across more than 700 online reviews. Patients consistently praise compassionate care, transparent communication, and smooth recoveries:

“Incredibly positive experience! A day after 3 extractions—no pain, no bleeding, and very minimal swelling. Dr. Tanner was highly professional, very engaging, and most importantly, he clearly does excellent work!” – Mark S.

“Dr. Ting explained everything and always ensured I was comfortable. He is gentle and kind, with a great bedside manner. The staff working with him was competent and kind—a well-run team.” – Suzy R.

World-Class Surgical Center

  • Accredited operatories meeting hospital-grade sterilization and monitoring standards

  • State-of-the-art in-house CBCT imaging for precise surgical planning

  • Comfortable private recovery areas with attentive post-op care, including warm blankets, hydration, and personal monitoring

Patient-Centered Los Angeles Oral Surgery Services at Santa Monica OMS

  • Transparent Pricing and Billing:
    Santa Monica OMS provides clear, upfront details about treatment costs. Fees are based on procedure complexity and quality care. Payment is required at the time of service, and the office submits claims for patients using out-of-network insurance plans.

  • Secure Online Patient Registration:
    New or returning patients (after two years) can conveniently complete a secure online registration before their appointment, which includes acknowledging privacy and financial policies.

  • Easy Online Bill Payment:
    Patients can quickly and securely pay bills online using the patient reference number provided by the office, simplifying the payment process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long is recovery after wisdom-teeth removal?

A: Most patients resume normal activities within three to four days, though recovery varies based on individual healing and procedure specifics. Swelling and discomfort typically subside significantly within a week.

Q: Can you get a full set of implants in one day?

A: Yes, in select cases with adequate bone structure, Santa Monica OMS offers advanced full-arch implant solutions such as "teeth-in-a-day." Your surgeon will evaluate your candidacy during the consultation using CBCT imaging.

Q: Do you accept PPO insurance?

A: Yes. The office assists with insurance pre-authorization and clearly outlines any expected out-of-pocket costs upfront.

Q: What financing is available?

A: Flexible financing options, including interest-free promotional periods through CareCredit®, are available to help manage the cost of treatment.

Q: What should I expect during my first consultation?

A: Your initial consultation involves a thorough examination, CBCT imaging if necessary, and a detailed discussion of treatment options, costs, and expected outcomes. This visit is designed to ensure clarity and comfort about your treatment plan.

Q: Is sedation dentistry safe?

A: Absolutely. Our team includes board-certified surgeons trained in advanced anesthesia techniques. Continuous monitoring ensures your safety and comfort throughout any sedation procedure.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Best Smile

Whether you seek a single dental implant or comprehensive Los Angeles oral surgery solutions, Santa Monica OMS provides world-class, personalized care designed to meet the highest standards. To arrange your consultation, call 310-315-1034 or book an appointment online now. 

Dr. Derek L. Vajda

Jun 19, 2025

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