Experienced Dentist West Loop Chicago
Get to Know
Dr. Peter Hammes
Dr. Hammes values getting to know each of his patients and delivering dental care in a professional, comfortable environment. He and his team use the latest technologies to ensure transparency in treatment planning and ensure you always know what to expect. Nothing makes him happier than helping a patient achieve their dental goals in the most comfortable and efficient way possible. To get to know him a little bit ahead of your visit, read on below.
Why Did You Decide to
Become a Dentist?
Dr. Hammes knew he wanted to work in healthcare long before he became a dentist. He was accepted into medical school, and he thought a lot about which specialty area he wanted to pursue. He liked the idea of working with his hands and having one-on-one relationships with his patients. Because of this, a family friend suggested that he take a strong look at dentistry, and once he did, he knew it was the right fit. Dr. Hammes declined medical school and applied to dental school the following year. The rest is history!
Where Did You Study Dentistry?
Dr. Hammes received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Illinois-Chicago. After graduating, he began his active-duty Navy career. During his first year, he completed a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency. This involved completing rotations in all of the specialty areas of dentistry, including oral surgery, endodontics, periodontics, and orthodontics.
Following this, he served as the Dental Department Head aboard the USS GERMANTOWN (LSD-42), which had a company of 300 and held a complement of 300-500 additional Marines when deployed. His second year aboard the USS GERMANTOWN, he was the Department Head of both the Medical and Dental departments while on a Western Pacific deployment.
In 2013-2014, he underwent a one-year fellowship in implant dentistry at the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. After two years of private practice, he opened Washington Dental Care West Loop in 2016. To stay on top of the latest findings in dentistry, he is a member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society, and Chicago Dental Society.
Outside of the Dental Office, What Do You Like to Do?
When not at work, Dr. Hammes enjoys spending time with family and friends, volunteering, staying fit, and scuba diving. His two food hobbies are grilling seafood and making a mean key lime pie from scratch. He is also a big Cubs and Bulls fan!