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Optimal Time for Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit

Parents in Rockford IL often wonder, “When should my child see an orthodontist?” Dr. Dennis Flanagan at Dennis J. Flanagan DDS MS is here to provide clarity on this important decision.

Orthodontics involves repositioning teeth for a beautiful smile, moving them from where they are to where they should be. While anyone can benefit from orthodontic treatment at any age, there are optimal times for effective results, particularly during juvenile and adolescent growth spurts (ages 7-12).

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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 myths about it!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. Below are some tips from Dr. Dennis Flanagan at Dennis J. Flanagan DDS MS for making sure your child knows how to effectively and properly clean their teeth. 

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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 you have your appointment, here is a list of things you should do before you go to see your Dentist. It is important that you have the necessary items for your appointment.

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Dating with Braces – Dos and Don’ts

Date night should be a fun experience, don’t let your braces hold you back from making the most of it! Fortunately, your braces don’t have to be a source of worry. Instead, you can focus on what to wear, where to go, and what to talk about. With a few simple tips you can flash your beautiful smile at your date as many times as you want without being worried about leftovers being hidden in your brackets. Read on for some advice from Dr. Dennis Flanagan at Dennis J. Flanagan DDS MS.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 some ways from Dr. Dennis Flanagan at Dennis J. Flanagan DDS MS to make your child’s visit from the Tooth Fairy a lot more exciting!

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