Dr. Erin K. Allen
DOCTOR OF DENTAL SURGERY
From the moment I chose dentistry as my profession, I knew it was about so much more than just teeth - it's about taking care of people and improving their lives. It's been difficult to watch healthcare become more and more commodified. With the focus shifting rapidly to high-volume transactional care, patients' individual concerns, goals, and well-being are often overshadowed. I know in my heart that patients deserve better. Patients deserve time with their providers, someone who will look them in the eye, answer their questions, and take their concerns seriously. They deserve compassion, empathy, comfort, and dignity. They deserve dentistry that empowers them through exceptional care, kindness, and support. I'm proud to lead a practice that upholds these values.
I grew up in a small town in west central Minnesota where my father practiced dentistry for more than 40 years. There I saw firsthand what it really meant to walk with patients for a lifetime on their dental health journey. My upbringing and education were shaped in so many ways by the best kind of dentistry - the kind practiced with great care, deep expertise, and genuine personal connection.
I genuinely look forward to seeing my patients and team every day. I love every chance we get to catch up, share a laugh, listen to concerns, and celebrate victories as we work together toward your healthiest and most joyful smile. Dr. Holm, Dr. Lauren, and I, along with the rest of my exceptional team, always look forward to welcoming you back to your dental home.
Professional Education
University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
- Doctor of Dental Surgery, 2016
- Honors: Dean's List
University of Minnesota College of Liberal Arts
- Bachelor of Arts in Visual Art, 2006
- Graduated with Honors
University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management
- Bachelor of Science in Business, 2006
- Graduated with Honors
Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa High School
- Class of 2001
- Salutatorian
- National Honor Society
- Speech Team (state honors), tennis, and track & field
Professional Affiliations
- American Dental Association
- Minnesota Dental Association
- Spear Education
- Pankey Institute
Continuing Dental Education
The potential for lifelong learning is one of my favorite things about dentistry. Throughout my career I have sought out highly respected continuing education so I can continue to provide my patients with expert-level care in the areas of:
Some continuing education highlights include:
- Cosmetic dentistry
- Restorative design
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Oral-systemic connection and dentistry's relationship to general health
- Dental implants
- Pediatric dentistry
- Temporomandibular disorders (TMJ) and orofacial pain
- Occlusion
- Airway-informed dentistry, with emphasis on structure, function, and behavior
- Dental anesthetic technique
Spear Education
Spear Education is recognized as one of the premier dental education institutes in the world, focused on patient-centric dental healthcare and advanced clinical techniques from some of the most respected minds in dentistry today.
Focused areas of study: comprehensive diagnosis and treatment planning, cosmetic dentistry, occlusion and TMJ, airway, and restorative design.
Pankey Institute
The Pankey Institute is a renowned and respected institution at the forefront of dental education and professional development. The Pankey Philosophy revolves around the concept of Complete Dentistry, which emphasizes not only the technical aspects of dental practice but also the importance of understanding each patient as a unique individual with distinct needs, desires, and circumstances. Through a commitment to lifelong learning and a patient-centered approach, The Pankey Institute equips dentists, dental hygienists, and dental team members with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to deliver personalized, comprehensive care that improves patients' oral health and overall well-being.
Focused areas of study: comprehensive diagnosis and treatment planning, cosmetic dentistry, and restorative dentistry.
University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
- Mini Residency in TMD and Orofacial Pain
- Mini Residency in Pediatric Dentistry
Personal
I grew up in a town of 700 in west central Minnesota, and I have loved life in the Twin Cities metro for more than 20 years.
Lifetime Community Involvement
It's been my great pleasure to provide community outreach, support, and service for many years for organizations and events such as Give Kids a Smile, Second Harvest Heartland, Springboard for the Arts - Artists' Access to Healthcare, the Phillips Neighborhood Clinic, the Anatomy Bequest Program Service of Gratitude, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Interests
Outside of the dental office you might find me kayaking down Minnehaha Creek, hitting the tennis court, swimming laps, or seeking out great art, great music, or great coffee.
My favorite annual race is the YWCA Women's Triathlon at Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis. One of the running events I'm most proud of completing is the 200-mile Ragnar Great River Relay from Winona to Minneapolis, Minnesota.