Joshua Allen, DMD, Owner & Dentist, Keep Smiling Family Dentistry

HOW DO YOU DEFINE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE? 

A healthy lifestyle is taking time to nurture one’s spiritual, mental and physical health as a way of living. It’s a daily practice. HOW DID 

YOU COME TO PRACTICE IN YOUR CAREER FIELD? 

My grandfather died of a brain tumor the year before I was born. Upon learning this, I knew I wanted to help in the medical field. Eventually in college, I started shadowing various kinds of doctors. Dentistry started to really appeal to me so I shadowed many different types of dentists; and not a single one I met regretted dentistry as a career choice. I liked the idea of working with my hands and developing relationships with my patients while also having the ability to be my own boss to have more time for family. 

WHAT ARE YOUR PRACTICES TO KEEP YOURSELF HEALTHY, YOUR FAMILY HEALTHY?

For me, my faith in Jesus is at the center of all that I do. A life filled with stress and worry is very unhealthy, but knowing God is in control gives me hope and assurance no matter what curveballs life throws at me. I pray often and take time each day to practice mindfulness and being thankful. I enjoy staying active with my wife by going on hikes and getting out in nature. The past couple of years, she and I have learned how important it is for our spiritual and mental health to stay connected to our friends and family. 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HEALTHY FOOD/SNACK? 

Air-popped popcorn lightly seasoned with grass-fed butter, pink Himalayan sea salt and freshly cracked pepper. 

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST HEALTH, WELLNESS TIPS? 

Having good oral health in addition to an overall healthy lifestyle will have a positive impact on the health of the rest of your body. “Seeing a dentist annually and taking time daily to care for your teeth and gums will benefit the health of your heart, blood sugar levels, brain, gut, and more. 

WHAT IS YOUR NEXT GOAL IN YOUR HEALTH, WELLNESS JOURNEY?

 It can be hard for me to slow down and keep things simple. I love taking on new tasks and am eager to please others. I need to learn “What is my best yes?” and practice more selfcare so I don’t stretch myself too thin.