Welcome to Hälsa Dental

Hälsa is the Swedish word for health.
Our vision at Hälsa Dental is to build genuine relationships that empower our patients to choose health and their best life.

#healthysmilehealthylife
— Dr. Lauren Peterson

Choose with Confidence

Choosing a dentist who cares about your family’s oral health needs is essential. Even more important is choosing a dentist who truly cares about you and your family as individuals.

At Hälsa Dental, Dr. Peterson and her team will take the time to get to know you and your family. When you visit our dental office, you know you’re among friends. Dr. Peterson and the rest of our friendly, accommodating and experienced dental team know how to keep your family’s teeth & mouth healthy so that you can enjoy happy, beautiful smiles for life.

Our caring dental team provides family and cosmetic dentistry to those in Arvada, Denver, Golden, Lakewood, Wheat Ridge, Westminster and the surrounding areas in Colorado. We work with you to get you a beautiful smile that fits your life and schedule. Our same day crowns are a great example of this.

Request an appointment online, call or visit our dentist office in Wheat Ridge. Schedule your or your family member’s next visit with Dr. Peterson and discover how personalized, health-centered dental care can improve your smile!

Lauren Peterson, DMD, Owner Hälsa Dental

Lauren Peterson, DMD, Owner Hälsa Dental

Ph. 303-940-0125


Healthy Smile. Healthy Life.

We understand that the mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body, which means that your oral health directly affects your overall health.

Dr. Peterson and Dr. Dougherty use some of the latest dental equipment, including digital radiography, as well as Same Day Crowns to detect, diagnose, and treat oral health problems quickly and effectively so that you can maintain optimal oral and overall health. Participating in local study clubs, Dr. Peterson and Dr. Dougherty take part in monthly meetings with dentists and specialists from around the front range in order to continue their education and provide for you, the latest in dental knowledge and treatment planning.

Together they have the knowledge and experience to help you understand how improving your oral health through consistent home care and regular visits to the dentist will not only enhance and improve your smile, but your overall health as well.

5280 Top Dentist
2015-2024

Our Team


LAUREN PETERSON, DMD

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Dr. Lauren Peterson is a 2009 graduate (Magna Cum Laude) from the Boston University School of Dental Medicine, where she received her Doctorate in Medical Dentistry. Her undergraduate studies in History were completed at UCLA. Shortly after receiving her DMD, Dr. Peterson moved to and began practicing in Colorado.

As a dentist, Dr. Peterson aims to improve the overall health and appearance of her patients in a warm and inviting environment.  

In addition, Dr. Peterson is a participant in a local Spear Study Club, a group of skilled dentists and specialists, who consult on complicated cases and attend continuing education at the Scottsdale Center in Arizona.  She has attended advanced courses in facially-generated treatment planning, worn dentition, anterior cosmetic dentistry, occlusion and airway prosthedontics.

Dr. Peterson was raised in southern California and currently resides in Wheat Ridge, with her husband, Justin, and their children, Kallie and Karsten.  She enjoys all four seasons in Colorado where she can hike, mountain bike and ski.


Dr. Carrie Dougherty

I grew up in Ft. Collins - yep- a true Colorado native!

I have a Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and a minor in Chemistry from Colorado State University.

I went to Boston University for dental school where I acquired a love for the Red Sox, an affinity for the East coast, and a dental degree received with Honors.

An enjoyable time at the dentist? It’s possible! I excel at patient education and helping patients understand my recommended treatment to make decisions as a team. My passion is in the relationships. I can’t wait to meet you!

I have been practicing dentistry since 2005 and enjoy treating all members of the family. I have been married since 2000 and have 3 sons and a sweet pup. I love to be outside (preferably in the mountains), watch my boys play soccer, or just relax with friends and family.

Achievements: 5280 Top Doc 2012-2020

Memberships: American Dental Association, Colorado Dental Association, Metro Denver Dental Society


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Jenn, Operations Manager

Since joining our practice in 2011, Jenn has consistently provided excellent care to our patients. She enjoys working as part of a team that values integrity and provides high-quality care. Building relationships with patients is one of the most rewarding aspects of her job.

Jenn graduated from The Ohio State University and is a veteran of the United States Air Force. She has two wonderful sons, both proudly serving in the Air Force. Jenn loves running with her dogs, reading and crafting in her spare time.

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Kim, Dental Hygienist

Kim joined Dr. Peterson's team in 2014 - initially to cover a maternity leave, but we loved her so much we kept her permanently!

She graduated from the dental hygiene program at Sheridan College in 1990 and worked in her hometown of Billings, Montana for a few years before moving to Denver in 1995. Kim loves being a hygienist as it allows her to meet new people all the time.

She is married to James and together they have two crazy and very entertaining cats. In her spare time Kim enjoys quilting, cooking and working out at the gym.


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Ak, EDDA

Ak joined our team in October 2019. He comes from a background of customer service and administrative assisting. Ak graduated from PIMA Medical Institute dental assisting program and has been an Expanded Duties Dental Assistant for 8 years.

He is also an Army Veteran. On the weekends he enjoys riding his bicycle, playing with his son and time with his family. He is an avid Pokemon Go nerd and lifetime Star Wars fan! Ak brings a sense of humor to our practice daily.