Discover the Best Teeth Straightening Options: Why Braces Are a Top Choice in Rockford and Winnebago IL

Considering braces? At Dennis J. Flanagan DDS MS in Rockford and Winnebago, IL, we’re here to help you navigate your orthodontic journey. Searching for an “orthodontist near me” and understanding affordable braces can be daunting. This guide, created with insights from Dr. Dennis Flanagan, addresses common questions to make your decision easier

Will Getting Braces Hurt?

Initial discomfort is normal, especially after placement or adjustments.
Most patients find this soreness mild and temporary.

Understanding Treatment Costs

Costs vary based on individual needs and treatment duration.
Dennis J. Flanagan DDS MS offers personalized treatment plans and affordable braces options.
We provide detailed cost breakdowns, including insurance and payment plans, during your consultation.

Lifestyle with Braces

Sports: Yes, you can play! We recommend a protective mouthguard for high-impact activities.
Musical Instruments: Continue playing! A brief adjustment period is typical.
Diet: Some food adjustments are necessary to protect your braces.

Foods to Avoid:

Chewy: bagels, licorice
Crunchy: popcorn, chips, ice
Sticky: caramel, gum
Hard: nuts, hard candies
Biting into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots

Foods You Can Enjoy:

Dairy: soft cheese, pudding, milk drinks
Breads: soft tortillas, pancakes, nut-free muffins
Grains: pasta, soft rice
Meats: soft chicken, meatballs, lunch meats
Seafood: tuna, salmon, crab cakes
Vegetables: mashed potatoes, steamed spinach, beans
Fruits: applesauce, bananas, fruit juice
Treats: nut-free ice cream, milkshakes, Jell-O, soft cake

Treatment Duration and Retainers

Getting your braces off is exciting! But your teeth can still move, even years later. It’s normal for teeth to try and go back to where they were. That’s why retainers are so important.
Think of it like this: your teeth remember where they used to be. Retainers help them stay in their new, straight positions. If you don’t wear your retainer, your teeth might shift.
The good news is, you usually only need to wear your retainer at night while you sleep. They’re made to be comfortable. At first, it might feel a little strange, but you’ll get used to it quickly. After a while, you might even feel like something’s missing if you don’t wear them!
Wearing your retainer is a long-term thing, not just for a few months. It’s how you keep your smile looking great. Your orthodontist will also check your retainer to make sure it’s working right. We want your smile to stay perfect for a long time.

Dental Checkups During Orthodontic Treatment

When you get braces, you might think you only need to see your orthodontist. But visiting your regular dentist is actually even more important now. Here’s why:
Braces have lots of small spaces and wires where food can get stuck. Even if you brush your teeth really well, your toothbrush might not be able to reach all those spots. When food stays trapped, tiny germs called bacteria start to grow.
These bacteria can cause problems like cavities (holes in your teeth), gingivitis (red and swollen gums), and gum disease (a serious infection of the gums). These problems can hurt your teeth and gums, and they can even affect your overall health.
That’s why seeing your dentist regularly is so important. Your dentist can do a deep cleaning that gets rid of the food and bacteria your toothbrush misses. They can also check your teeth and gums to make sure they’re healthy.