The Dental Specialists 
Education:
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (2002), University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
- Doctor of Medicine (2006), Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
- Certificate Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (2008), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
- Certificate in Orthodontics (2012), University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- M.S. Dentistry (2012), University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Professional Activities
- American Board of Orthodontics
- American Association of Orthodontists
- American Dental Association
- Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society
Publications
Allen BE, Van Ess J, Gladwell M, Rieck KL, Carr A: The Success Rate of the Nobel Biocare Mark III TiUnite Dental Implant System. Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology and Endodontics 106:e19, 2008.
Allen BE, Greenwell H, Drisko CH, Scheetz JP: The Prevalence of Hypertension in Periodontitis Patients Over Age 60. Journal of Dental Research 80S:381, 2001.
Verified Patient Reviews
4.9 out of 5
(361 Reviews)
(117 Comments)
Overall patient ratings are based on the average score given by The Dental Specialists patients who voluntarily complete a satisfaction survey from Press Ganey, a nationally recognized firm dedicated to improving patient experience. Click to learn more about our patient ratings.
5 out of 5
October 10, 2024
This is my first time visiting an orthodontist and I'm in my late 30s. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. They made me feel very at ease and comfortable!
5 out of 5
October 1, 2024
Dr. Allen and his staff were all wonderful and helpful for this appointment, thank you!
5 out of 5
September 17, 2024
We appreciate your transparency and level of explanation for your determination on how to take the next steps.
5 out of 5
September 17, 2024
We appreciate how he explained what our son's current dental situation is and how braces are important to helping his teeth grow in properly. We also appreciate the paperwork detailing the most likely expenses involved with the treatment.
5 out of 5
September 17, 2024
I booked my two boys appointments back to back at 3:00 and 4:00, hoping you could group them together and we could finish up a little earlier. You and your staff were great to recognize a chance to save time and handle them both concurrently so we could all wrap up efficiently.
5 out of 5
September 12, 2024
Very well explained and patient
5 out of 5
August 19, 2024
Clear explanations and suggestions
5 out of 5
July 28, 2024
Answers questions, very helpful
5 out of 5
July 28, 2024
They seem to work together very well
5 out of 5
June 25, 2024
Dr. Allen is the best. For me orthodontist means Dr Allen.
5 out of 5
June 25, 2024
I wasn't nervous so the first question didn't apply. A great value for money.
5 out of 5
June 18, 2024
GOOD EXPERIENCE!
5 out of 5
June 13, 2024
Dr Allen has always been very helpful, and has continued my treatment with many adjustments, when my specific case was admittedly more challenging and difficult than many others. He also has an excellent manner, and I observe he works with his assistants very well!
5 out of 5
May 22, 2024
Excellent very good
5 out of 5
May 22, 2024
Excellent very good
5 out of 5
May 2, 2024
I will recommend family and friends to do their treatment here in the clinic.
5 out of 5
May 2, 2024
I will recommend anyone that is looking dental treatment and to make their smile better
5 out of 5
April 27, 2024
The only thing that I would advise doing differently is that Dr Allen could look the patient and parent in the eye and introduce himself when he enters the room.
5 out of 5
April 18, 2024
They've kept me updated
5 out of 5
April 18, 2024
I like how he talks directly to my daughter and also to me, and how he collaborates so respectfully with other staff members
5 out of 5
March 17, 2024
Very informative
5 out of 5
March 17, 2024
The process is going well
5 out of 5
March 12, 2024
Love this doctor
5 out of 5
March 12, 2024
Everything is great
5 out of 5
January 23, 2024
Dr. Allen and his assistant were very thorough in looking at the problem and proposing treatment options which did not include orthodontia assistance at this time. Very much appreciated their assistance and direct approach.
5 out of 5
January 21, 2024
They're very friendly and helpful
5 out of 5
January 16, 2024
Staff / technicians were very good. Orthodontist's communication was spotty - oftentimes, I usually felt there was no recap or conclusion, as I had to pro-actively ask for recap.
5 out of 5
January 12, 2024
Excellent service
5 out of 5
January 11, 2024
Dr Allen is the greatest orthodontist, I am so thankful to have been recommended to him.
4 out of 5
January 9, 2024
Over the past few visits, we've been given less and less information about how her treatment is going. We were told the braces were to come off several months ago and no one will come out and talk to us about how it is going and the estimated timeline. I wish the assistant would come out and share more. That said, when they have come out and shared some, they often seem uninformed about next steps. My daughter has left in tears two out of the past three visits because she can't understand what is going on and how much longer this is going to take.
5 out of 5
January 9, 2024
Dr. Allen is the best, great knowledge, service and care.
5 out of 5
December 17, 2023
Love this practice and everyone in it!
5 out of 5
November 30, 2023
The advanced technology used in this office was most impressive. I was treated veery well by everyone I saw. Although I will not proceed with treatment, I have grandchildren in the area who might need orthodontics. I will definitely recommend this office to their parents!
5 out of 5
November 20, 2023
Dr. Allen has been great at listening to my concerns & questions, and providing information to my satisfaction.
5 out of 5
November 20, 2023
Regarding options, risks, benefits. I would say that maybe there is more room to discuss risks - but maybe there aren't a lot of risks?
5 out of 5
November 15, 2023
I recommend this orthodontist to anyone who asks, he is the best!
1 out of 5
October 24, 2023
Dr. Allen is very kind! However, I feel that he did not listen to my wishes for my orthodontic care. During my last appointment, I explained specific orthodontic issues I wanted resolved. However, the proposed treatment I received (set of trays) doesn't address those concerns. When I mentioned those concerns again, the orthodontist didn't know what my concerns were originally, so I explained everything again. I wish he had taken better notes about my concerns and that he had designed my trays to address those concerns.
5 out of 5
October 9, 2023
Excellent service!
5 out of 5
October 9, 2023
Great experience!
5 out of 5
October 3, 2023
Always a great visit for my children
5 out of 5
September 21, 2023
Dr. Ben and his team was amazing! They were easy to schedule with and throughly explained every step of the way from the proposal to adjustment appointments. Thank you for working hard to correct my child's "wonky smile" as she use to call It. She is very happy with the results!
5 out of 5
September 21, 2023
Dr. Allen was very patient with my questions. He listened with his full attention and took my requests seriously. I appreciate his feedback, ideas and advice regarding my orthodontic journey!
5 out of 5
September 18, 2023
Dr. Allen is the best.
4 out of 5
September 8, 2023
This has been ongoing for sometime he ask questions when I'm answering he cuts me off. He's also in a rush to get out of the room after seeing me.
5 out of 5
September 5, 2023
Answered all my questions in easy to understand answers.
5 out of 5
August 28, 2023
Very pleased with Dr Allen and his review of my plan and options for going forward!
5 out of 5
July 30, 2023
My orthodontist did a great job into helping me keep on track with my retainers and would let me know when I was near completed with the retainers
5 out of 5
July 16, 2023
Good
5 out of 5
July 12, 2023
Dr. Allen is conscientious and a good communicator. Very happy with his services.
5 out of 5
May 17, 2023
Dr. Allen is great! We had come to him for a second opinion on my sons teeth and he provided great advice and a path forward.
5 out of 5
May 10, 2023
They do a great job!
5 out of 5
April 27, 2023
The options of care could not have been explained any better. I was given a full price sheet to take home and review.
5 out of 5
April 27, 2023
This was the first time someone had actually listened to me and my concerns.He did not write me off as "old" and therefore, someone not worthy of treating. I felt like someone really cared about my fixing my problem even though I might have only a few years left to enjoy the results.
5 out of 5
April 27, 2023
Dr. Allen was amazing as usual and kept me well informed! Thank you!
5 out of 5
April 22, 2023
All staff is very attentive and patient. Never felt rushed and they made sure all my questions were answered and I understood.
5 out of 5
March 16, 2023
Dr is always personable and shows real interest in us. So great!
5 out of 5
February 28, 2023
I've had a lot of questions, he's been very patient & thoughtful in answering them
4 out of 5
February 20, 2023
I am very nervous about these coming procedures and apperciate the kindness of you and your staff.
No rating provided with comment
February 16, 2023
The orthodontist spent all of a minute with my son. No rating applied
5 out of 5
January 31, 2023
Good
5 out of 5
January 31, 2023
Good
5 out of 5
January 4, 2023
Good experience.
5 out of 5
January 4, 2023
Good experience.
5 out of 5
January 3, 2023
Very pleasant and positive experience!
5 out of 5
December 12, 2022
My son really likes Dr. Allen. We drive about an hour to go see him.
3 out of 5
December 2, 2022
We had some concerns about the timeframe and how treatment was going and it seemed to be brushed off. We were frustrated with the progress being made and every time we asked about timeline 3-4 months were be added but no progress seemed to be made.
5 out of 5
November 22, 2022
I loved the "complimentary X-ray" to see where the adult teeth are coming in. It shows you care to see how quickly you may need to address future work. I don't want my daughter feeling self conscious about her smile, the way I did for so long as a child, and I love how proactive it feels to take that approach with the X-ray
No rating provided with comment
October 17, 2022
Everyone is very nice and helpful
5 out of 5
October 14, 2022
Orthodontist Dr. Allen and the entire staff that day were, as per all of my past visits, friendly, cheerful, patient and so kind. It had been a long time since my last visit (possibly a year +) and it was awesome to still feel welcome there after all that time.
5 out of 5
October 2, 2022
Good experience.
5 out of 5
August 30, 2022
I've always felt comfortable and the treatment has always been explained to me.
5 out of 5
August 24, 2022
I have only had a great experience.
5 out of 5
August 24, 2022
The results of my orthodontic care plan have been excellent and already beyond my expectations. I will recommend Dr. Allen to anyone needing orthodontic care.
2 out of 5
July 20, 2022
I felt rushed. I had questions and I didn't feel listened to. I felt like the orthodontist didn't understand the question I was asking and he clearly couldn't spare more than 5-7 minutes for our appointment so I didn't feel comfortable clarifying or asking a follow up question
2 out of 5
July 20, 2022
I have a young child and I need a supportive experience tailored for children given how many visits are required when doing treatment. I also want someone who will take my concerns seriously. Getting braces can be uncomfortable and I felt that was brushed off. I needed to understand the implications of a decision to wait and ultimately I didn't feel this was the right practice for my family. I need something more kid friendly and an orthodontist who has time for at least 10 minutes of questions. I know several people who had their kids in braces younger than 10, and then had to do more later. I wanted to talk about the research supporting his recommendations so I could read it but he was in a rush. The person sitting with us during the wait was very nice. But she gave me a card with some follow up information but honestly given that this is a journey of several thousands of dollars and work ahead for my child, I want more than that.
5 out of 5
July 5, 2022
I would recommend your office to anyone that's needs orthodontia care!
3 out of 5
June 13, 2022
I do wish the orthodonist spent more time with me. I don't think the dental assistant listened to me well and certainly did not prepare me for what to expect being this is my first time having braces or Invisilign
5 out of 5
June 1, 2022
Great experience! Dr. Allen is always open to discussion and feedback.
5 out of 5
June 1, 2022
Dr. Allen is a very good listener and careful about listening to your issues and customizing a plan. I am very impressed. I have rarely met a medical professional who takes so much time to figure out the exact right solution.
5 out of 5
May 26, 2022
Very happy with everything!
5 out of 5
May 19, 2022
Good experience
5 out of 5
May 19, 2022
Good experience
5 out of 5
May 18, 2022
We've already recommended 2 families and hope more go to see you!
5 out of 5
May 17, 2022
My daughter is 13 and they treated her with respect and courtesy. She was fully engaged with which she and I both greatly appreciated.
5 out of 5
April 29, 2022
Dr. Allen has been great throughout my entire patient experience. I will definitely recommend him!
5 out of 5
April 26, 2022
What a team. Was so impressed with both the dental assistant and orthodontist knowledge, quickness of taking pictures, thoroughness of answers, direct without being a jerk.
5 out of 5
April 22, 2022
Educated answers,explained options,very gentle and understanding and very thorough.
4 out of 5
April 21, 2022
Dr. Allen helps me understand why things need to be done the way it is being done. I feel heard, and sometimes I am a little confused about what is currently happening.
5 out of 5
March 27, 2022
The initial conversation was very focused on cosmetics and appearance which is not something we put value on in our family.
3 out of 5
March 2, 2022
I was not understanding the need to start before all teeth were lost. I had questions about options but he had other patients. The assistant helped me understand a bit more.
4 out of 5
February 26, 2022
Great staff
5 out of 5
February 17, 2022
Good
5 out of 5
February 1, 2022
Great experience! the dental assistants are the best!!!!
5 out of 5
February 1, 2022
Great experience every time! Staff are so friendly and we always feel welcome!
5 out of 5
January 18, 2022
Staff is the best!
5 out of 5
January 18, 2022
Dr. Allen was able to answer any questions I had!
5 out of 5
January 18, 2022
Dr. Allen was able to answer any questions I had!
5 out of 5
January 13, 2022
Answered all my questions!
5 out of 5
January 13, 2022
I was concerned about some teeth sensitivity and felt so much better after being able to ask questions about it!
5 out of 5
January 12, 2022
Dr Ben Allen is superb in every way
5 out of 5
January 12, 2022
Dr. Alan is a great guy. Professional as well as personable
5 out of 5
January 6, 2022
Dr Allen spent all the time I asked for, explaining the future of my orthodontic treatment, and thoroughly answering all my questions1
5 out of 5
January 3, 2022
My experience at The Dental Specialists Orthodontics has always been exceptional!
5 out of 5
January 3, 2022
I have recommended the Dental Specialists Orthodontics to friends considering orthodontics.
5 out of 5
January 3, 2022
I have never had to wait more than a minute or two for an appointment (i.e. I am usually seen a few minutes before the scheduled time).
5 out of 5
December 28, 2021
Awesome awesome group!!
5 out of 5
December 17, 2021
I think Dr. Allen is the best in his specialty in the area.
5 out of 5
December 17, 2021
Benjamin Allen is very good at what he does and is very good about explaining everything.
5 out of 5
December 16, 2021
The dental assistant was very friendly and was able to get my son engaged in a conversation - not a very easy thing to do. :)The orthodontist was efficient but thorough and carefully explained his assessment of my son's situation. I felt that questions were welcomed and answered with the right level of detail.It was a very positive experience!
5 out of 5
November 22, 2021
Dr. Alan and his team are fantastic! I am so happy that I am provided such excellent care.
5 out of 5
November 18, 2021
Honestly have only spoken with his assistants for some time but Dr Allen has always been great
5 out of 5
October 13, 2021
Good
5 out of 5
October 12, 2021
Dr. Benjamin Alan was amazing. He eased my daughter's nerves about the prospect of getting braces, explained everything very clearly, and was the best hand washer I've ever seen in a medical setting. It was very reassuring to know he takes sanitation, health, and safety seriously, especially since orthodontic work requires patients to remove their masks.
5 out of 5
October 2, 2021
Very pleasant, easy to understand the discussion and professional
5 out of 5
August 18, 2021
He was also very nice and explained everything very well!
5 out of 5
July 14, 2021
I really like Dr. Allen and his staff. :)
5 out of 5
July 3, 2021
Dr Ben Allen-I can't rave enough about his skill, professionalism, and demeanor!
3 out of 5
June 15, 2021
Impactful steps of the treatment plan had not been fully explained. One extraction discussed as a possibility became two extractions necessary to the plan.
5 out of 5
June 8, 2021
Dr Allan was very kind and gentle and had a thoughtful approach to explaining the treatment.
5 out of 5
June 8, 2021
Answered all my questions and gave me the most economical option first and left open the possibility of another option if this did not work. Was very thorough.
5 out of 5
May 19, 2021
Dr. Allen and the dental assistant were both really patient and thorough. They were both friendly and took the time to answer my (many) questions. They both interacted really well with my daughter. She actually enjoyed it so much she did not want to leave.
5 out of 5
April 24, 2021
We love Dr. Allen! Always thorough and a good sense of humor.
5 out of 5
April 13, 2021
Very happy with everything!
5 out of 5
January 6, 2021
Excellent explanation of possible treatment plan.
5 out of 5
January 3, 2021
satisfied
5 out of 5
December 30, 2020
This whole team makes sure all your questions are answered before you leave the office.
5 out of 5
December 21, 2020
Dr. Allen is kind and gentle. You can tell he really cares about his patients. Our while family loves him and his practice!
5 out of 5
December 17, 2020
Everyone was jovial, helpful, clear, answered all of my questions, and did not use jargon to explain things. Everything from the orthodontic exam to the payment process was very smooth.
5 out of 5
December 14, 2020
Dr Ben Allen was superb on every level
5 out of 5
September 28, 2020
Great Doctor. we love Dr Allen very professional,kind,smart the list goes on and on.
5 out of 5
September 20, 2020
Thorough, simplified explanation. I appreciated the orthodontist patiently answering all of my questions and telling me all treatment options.
5 out of 5
August 20, 2020
Dr. Allen did a great job explaining our options- Invisalign vs regular braces. He is very knowledgeable, and funny! We're SO glad our friend recommended him for our daughter.
5 out of 5
August 12, 2020
Heather and Dr Allen are excellent
5 out of 5
July 27, 2020
We LOVE Dr Allen and his team!!!!
5 out of 5
March 12, 2020
very nice people especially the lady that sit in the front I look for her name
5 out of 5
February 24, 2020
Dr. Allen is our second and final orthodontist. We appreciate the care that he and his staff offer. He takes his time and is very thorough in what he does.
5 out of 5
February 5, 2020
Dr. Ben Allen always does a good job of listening to any concerns about my alignment process. He's also great at explaining why and what he's doing. It has given me confidence of what to expect during the time between my next appointment.
5 out of 5
December 17, 2019
Awesome guy
5 out of 5
November 23, 2019
Dr. Allen is kind, patient, and really helpful with the questions I'm sure are minor - but he makes me feel like my questions are important. He is an exceptional caregiver.
5 out of 5
October 23, 2019
Very minimal treatment needed .Dr.Allen listened to my concerns.
5 out of 5
September 24, 2019
Was way better outcome than expected. Very helpful too
5 out of 5
September 19, 2019
Dr. Allen is the third orthodontist we have brought our child to. She had a consult with the first, brought in for a second opinion and started phase one with the second, and ended up going in for a consult with Dr. Allen and it was the best decision. y
5 out of 5
August 1, 2019
I'm very comfortable with the Orthodontist and the treatment plan designed to correct the problems identified with my teeth alignment.
5 out of 5
July 18, 2019
Dr. Allen was great anticipating the questions that we might have and answered very patiently.
5 out of 5
May 8, 2019
He's great.
5 out of 5
April 16, 2019
Dr. Allen has been extraordinary kind and interested in my treatment. He answers all my questions and has changed my treatment according to what I was hoping to achieve. He always takes time through his exams and makes sure everything is going right. He then explains if he is going to change something or what he is trying to achieve.
5 out of 5
April 13, 2019
very approachable, knowledgeable
5 out of 5
April 8, 2019
Excellent! I would recommend to anyone seeking orthodontic services!
5 out of 5
February 26, 2019
Dr. Allen was great. Seemed genuinely to care and actively listened to any concerns/questions I had.
5 out of 5
February 20, 2019
Allen is a very good doctor. He made me feel reinsured and talked in depth about my problem. He explained very well and in detail. I felt very confident and comfortable with his work and the plan he has for me. He's very professional but keeps it real with you at the same time. I felt very satisfied after my consultation appointment, especially after coming from a clinic I didn't feel confident or comfortable with. That's why I'm switching to the Dental Specialists clinic.
5 out of 5
January 23, 2019
he is fantastic! he and the assistants made me feel very comfortable and involved in the process. all of my questions were answered above and beyond what I expected. I'm so glad I was referred to Dr. Allen
5 out of 5
January 21, 2019
appreciated the way Dr. and staff interacted with my daughter caring and sensitive with her feelings
4 out of 5
January 7, 2019
always seems rushed, doesn't ask if I have any questions or concerns and is gone by the time my chair is raised back upright. Fast food type service.