Author: Dr. Dennis Flanagan

At Flanagan Orthodontics in Rockford, IL, Dr. Dennis Flanagan embraces the age-old saying, ‘An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Applying this wisdom to our daily dietary choices can fortify and enhance the strength and brightness of our teeth, promoting a healthier smile.   While treatments such as veneers, crowns, and fillings Read More

Are you ready for the spine-tingling spookiness of Halloween? The costumes, the parties, and the haunted houses await. But lurking beneath the surface of this candy-coated holiday is a frightful menace – tooth decay! Yes, you heard it right, there’s nothing scarier than the thought of cavities creeping in like ghosts in the night.   Read More

October is known for cooler weather, pumpkin patches, and Halloween, but did you know it’s also National Orthodontic Health Month? This month celebrates the important role that orthodontics plays in improving both oral and mental health. While straightening your teeth may seem like a minor concern, the benefits can have a significant impact on your Read More

Orthodontics is a constantly evolving field that sees advancements in technology and practices regularly. As a patient, it’s important to stay up to date on what’s new in orthodontics and how these changes can benefit you. Keep reading to learn more about these exciting advancements from Dr. Dennis Flanagan at Dennis J. Flanagan DDS MS. Read More

If you’re considering Invisalign to straighten your teeth, you might be wondering if you can get it without seeing an orthodontist. While some companies offer mail-in orthodontic services, it’s important to choose a licensed orthodontist for your treatment. Keep reading to learn more from Dr. Dennis Flanagan at Dennis J. Flanagan DDS MS about the Read More

Pregnancy is a time of great change in a woman’s body, and oral health is no exception. While it may not be the first thing on your mind, your dental health is critical for a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause chemical imbalances throughout your body, leading Read More

If you’re considering Invisalign treatment, you may be wondering how often you need to wear your aligners to see results. The truth is that patient compliance is one of the most critical factors in achieving the desired outcome of Invisalign treatment. Discover the significance of compliance during orthodontic treatment as you read on, with insights Read More

Orthodontics is often associated with improving the appearance of teeth and correcting bite issues, but did you know that it can also help with breathing and sleep disorders? In fact, orthodontic treatment can be especially beneficial for patients who suffer from asthma and sleep apnea. In this post, Dr. Dennis Flanagan at Dennis J. Flanagan Read More

Speech development is a critical aspect of a child’s growth and development. Communication is an essential skill that impacts academic and social success. However, speech impairments can affect a child’s ability to communicate effectively and can result in frustration, anxiety, and isolation. To learn more about how orthodontics can effectively address speech impediments, keep reading Read More

When it comes to braces treatment, one concern that often arises is the appearance of white spots on the teeth. Many patients wonder if this is a normal occurrence. Similarly, tooth whitening is a topic that dental professionals frequently address. If you’re seeking effective ways to whiten your teeth and maintain their shine, Dr. Dennis Read More

The mouth is a complex and intricate part of the human body. If you’re considering braces or Invisalign, it’s important to know all about the structure of your mouth, so that you can make an informed decision about what type of treatment will work best for you! Being well-informed about the intricacies of orthodontic treatment Read More

You might be considering getting braces to help straighten your teeth. Congrats! Before you make a decision about which treatment path is best for you, it’s important that you ask your orthodontist some key questions. In this post, we’ll cover what you should ask about the treatment process, the cost of braces, and what to Read More

Invisalign is a popular and effective alternative to traditional braces. However, like any orthodontic treatment, you may experience some discomfort and pain as your teeth shift into their new positions. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to relieve Invisalign pain and keep your treatment on track. Here are some helpful tips from Dr. Read More

Diet is an important aspect of good oral health. Beyond brushing and flossing every night, it’s also good to understand which foods are doing the most damage to your teeth, and how to lessen or avoid that damage altogether. As you shop, it always pays off to check labels for high sugar content, high levels Read More

You may take vitamins daily for energy or a better immune system. But, vitamins are good for more than keeping your energy up or gut health, they are integral to good oral health as well. Vitamins are a great and super easy preventative measure for common oral health issues. Improving your mouth’s health every day Read More

Every year, you visit your doctor for a check-up. These well visits are to ensure you are healthy for the year to come! You also should have visits like these with your dentist, you need to have a dental check at least once every six months to make sure your teeth and mouth are healthy. Read More

Traveling is already stressful, so we don’t want caring for your Invisalign to make it even worse. The good news is that there are a few small changes to your packing routine that can alleviate Invisalign- related stress taking away from your vacation. When you’re in a new place, far from your orthodontist’s office, it’s Read More

The week after your new braces go on is often tough. There’s a lot you have to adjust to from metal in your mouth to changes in diet, nightly routine, and oral hygiene. Transitions and changes are never easy, and to help make your journey to a beautiful smile smooth and painless, Dr. Dennis Flanagan Read More

Invisalign is as common today as traditional braces. Usually, when you go to the orthodontist, you’ll be shown multiple treatment options, from Invisalign clear aligners to traditional bracket and wire braces. How does Invisalign work exactly? A completely invisible treatment that allows you to eat whatever you want is too good to be true, isn’t Read More

We’ve all heard horror stories of sports injuries, even worse witnessed one ourselves. After getting braces, you may be wondering ‘Can I play sports with braces?’ The best way to protect your mouth from a painful fate is to invest in a mouthguard before taking to the court. Mouthguards protect not only your teeth but Read More