Understanding the Role of an Orthodontist

Many people often confuse dentists with orthodontists, assuming they serve the same function. While both professions share similarities and collaborate closely, orthodontics is a specialized field within dentistry that focuses on specific dental concerns.   What Does an Orthodontist Do? Orthodontists, like Dr. Dennis Flanagan at Dennis J. Flanagan DDS MS, are qualified dentists who Read More

Candy Tips for Halloween

Halloween is right around the corner! And while eating copious amounts of candy isn’t spooky, cavities are! Halloween is a great time to enjoy some sugary treats, but an excess of these delicacies can leave your mouth rotten. Below are some tips to keep your teeth healthy from Dr. Dennis Flanagan at Dennis J. Flanagan Read More

Vitamins & Minerals for Oral Health

Vitamins and minerals are essential for your overall health and can help support things like your bones, eyesight, and more! Here is a list of key vitamins and minerals from Dr. Dennis Flanagan at Dennis J. Flanagan DDS MS to incorporate into your diet and keep your smile shining bright!

Busting Common Invisalign Myths

Considering orthodontic treatment can be intimidating, especially when thinking about traditional braces. The thought of having a mouth full of metal can be daunting for both self-conscious teens and professionals alike. However, there’s an alternative that many may overlook: Invisalign. This nearly invisible treatment option is often misunderstood, and we’re here to bust some common Read More

5 Tips for Teaching Kids How to Brush

Good oral hygiene is a crucial part of a person’s health. Thus, it is imperative that parents help teach their kids not only to brush their teeth twice a day, but also how to do so effectively. Rather than making brushing teeth a chore, try to make cleaning their teeth a fun and enjoyable experience. Read More

A Checklist for Your Next Dental Visit

Regular dental check-ups are a crucial part of oral health maintenance. You should see your dentist twice a year for maintenance. But, for most people, finding the time in your schedule for an appointment tends to be the hardest part. Be sure to find the time though, as your oral health depends on it.  Once Read More

Dental Implants – What Are They?

Dental implants are metal posts or frames that are surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath your gums. Once in place, they allow your dentist to mount replacement teeth onto them. Dental implants require a consultation and treatment that is performed by a qualified dental professional. They can help you determine if this is the right Read More

How to be the Best Tooth Fairy!

We all remember the excitement of losing teeth as a child. Losing teeth often isn’t the exciting part, but the visit from the Tooth Fairy is! Nowadays, there are a lot more things you can do beyond slipping some money under a pillow to create wonderful memories your child will never forget. Keep reading for Read More

3 Secrets to Making Flossing Simpler

Flossing may not be everyone’s favorite, but it is IMPORTANT! Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth to prevent gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. Flossing helps to eliminate the accumulation of harmful bacteria and plaque, which is a result of food particles that get trapped between the teeth and under the gum Read More

Why You Should Be Smiling!

We all know that smiling is a crucial part of your health and happiness! Your oral health care team (dentist and orthodontist) are committed to keep your smile beautiful and shining bright! A beautiful smile can actually have positive impacts on your health beyond healthy teeth. Did you know there has actually been a proven Read More

Taking Care of Your Teeth at Home

Taking care of your teeth is an essential part of maintaining your health and wellness. While you should visit your dentist at least twice a year for a regular checkup and cleaning, they alone cannot account for your teeth health. Thus, it is up to you to take initiative and take care of your teeth Read More

Selecting the Ideal Dental Specialist for Your Smile in Rockford IL

The choice between a dentist, pedodontist, or orthodontist in Rockford IL may leave many bewildered. Why opt for an orthodontist, you might ask? The secret lies in their experience and specialized training.   The Differences Between Dentists, Pedodontists, and Orthodontists Dentists: All three professionals—dentists, pedodontists, and orthodontists—fall under the realm of oral care specialists, but their Read More

Digital Impressions

Gone are the days of gag-inducing, chemical-tasting putty impressions at the orthodontist’s office. With advances in technology, Dr. Dennis Flanagan at Dennis J. Flanagan DDS MS has access to high-tech digital impression machinery, making the experience of getting impressions taken vastly different and more comfortable. What are Digital Impressions? Digital impressions are completely computerized, eliminating the Read More