About Peter K. Hellwig, DDS
Dr. Hellwig has practiced dentistry in the greater San Diego area since 1969. He is a Fellow and Master in the Academy of General Dentistry. He is a Fellow and Diplomat of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and a member of the American Association of Implant Dentistry. He has over 20 years of experience in implantology and restorative dentistry. He has trained at Loma Linda University and is a graduate and Fellow of the world renowned Misch International Implant Institute. His dedication to his art and a passion for continuing education motivates Dr. Hellwig to create new approaches to cosmetic and restorative dentistry. This is the way for this multitalented man to combine his diverse interest and provide care options for his clientele. Today, his practice extends from general dentistry to implantology, conservative periodontics and cosmetic reconstruction. Dr. Hellwig believes a patient’s knowledge about the cause, care and prevention of a condition is essential. During dental cleaning, for example, he and his team conduct microscopic screening for disease associated bacteria – a valuable, proven procedure used for years. Using this diagnostic tool, plus others, patients are shown hands-on ways to prevent and control further tooth and gum disease. This proactive approach is the foundation of his non-surgical treatment regime for periodontal disease. While some dentists routinely cut out infected tissue, when possible Dr. Hellwig treats the cause rather than the symptoms of dental disease, attaining a more permanent solution to chronic and systemic periodontal disease without the disfigurement of surgery. Infectious oral bacteria have also been linked to heart disease, premature birth and other systemic conditions as reported in the New England Journal of Medicine. While this non-surgical approach may take more time and more patient involvement, it often prevents disfiguring surgery of the gums and results in a healthy, natural smile and better general health when successful. Perhaps the most exciting advancement is implantology. Oral implants act as the equivalent of new tooth roots upon which fixed replacement teeth are secured, thus replacing missing teeth with crowns and bridges to eliminate removable partial or loose dentures. All lab work is done by experienced technicians under Dr. Hellwig’s strict supervision and control. We use only the finest porcelains, gold alloys and materials. He has many documented cases with before and after photos at his office which have been shown at dental symposiums. From a routine cleaning to complete oral reconstruction, Dr. Hellwig and his highly trained and experienced staff work with each patient to create a treatment plan that fits the individual’s budget, lifestyle and situation. Various forms of sedation (and even general anesthesia) are available to guarantee compassionate, gentle, health centered care – even for fearful patients. Dr. Hellwig enjoys designing smiles and receives great pleasure from the friendships he cultivated with his local and international patients. In his spare time, Dr. Hellwig enjoys starting every morning with a walk in his neighborhood followed by a game of ping pong with his wife, Kathy. On the weekends and holidays, he enjoys bike riding, tennis and cruising our beautiful San Diego waters.
