Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we accept most dental insurance plans to make your dental visits as convenient and affordable as possible. 

However, we are aware that insurance companies change the coverage they offer and their policies regularly, and the insurances we are in-network with may change as well. For that reason, we urge you to call us to see if we are currently accepting your dental insurance and what treatments your insurance may cover in our dental office.

Which Companies Offer Dental Insurance?

Popular dental insurance companies include:

• Cigna
• Delta Dental
• Aetna
• Humana 

And the list goes on. So, again, we recommend that you call us to check and see if we are currently accepting any of the above dental insurance plans or other plans you may have. 

Our knowledgeable patient and office coordinators can answer your questions about your dental insurance and offer you the best guidance. We can also discuss our other potential payment options with you at that time. 

Affordable Pediatric Dentistry in Decatur

We believe everyone deserves access to quality dental services, and we will do our best to help you get the most out of your dental insurance benefits, even assisting you in filing your claims.

We encourage you to reach out to our experienced dental professionals today to find out how your dental insurance can help you cover the best dental treatments for your child.

It is essential to understand the role that sugar plays in the process of causing tooth decay. It's not sugar itself that causes cavities, but it has more to with the reaction that sugar causes. It is the food or fuel for the bacteria that gather in the biofilm on your teeth called plaque. The bacteria consume the sugar and produce acid as a byproduct, which eats away at your teeth causing enamel erosion and tooth decay. 

Building Great Oral Care for a Lifetime

Teaching your child about the dangers of consuming sugars early on will help them develop good habits they can take into the future. Limit their consumption of sugary beverages, including fruit juices, which are high in acids and loaded with sugar. Encourage them into the habit of drinking water at a young age, which will protect their teeth and keep them hydrated. 

Also promote fruits and vegetables for their snacks, which neutralize the acids in their mouth that cause tooth decay and increases saliva flow, which also helps protect their teeth by washing away food debris. 

Call To Learn More About Children's Dentistry in Decatur, IL

If you have questions about your child's oral health or nutrition, or perhaps you're looking for Decatur, IL pediatric dentistry your family can rely on, please call Dr. Bret Jerger for more information.

There may be many reasons you're looking for a special needs dentist in Decatur, IL, and fear or anxiety is no exception. Dr. Jerger and our dental team love children, and we make it our goal to help every child feel safe and welcome when they visit our pediatric dental office.

Our team uses a tell, show, do approach when we are helping children acclimate to our dental office. This means we tell and explain what we are going to do, and we show them the instruments we need to accomplish the procedure. Then we do the procedure; however, we never move forward with any treatment until your son or daughter feels completely comfortable.

There are also a lot of things you can do at home to help your little one feel comfortable and excited about visiting their Decatur, IL dentist. Talk positively about the dentist, even if you feel anxiety about your own dental visits. Read stories or color pictures about the dentist and talk about what your son or daughter will be doing during their appointment to prepare them.

Contact Our Decatur, IL Dental Office

If you're looking for an excellent "kids dentist near me," look no further than Jerger Pediatric Dentistry. Our practice has been taking great care of children in our community for over 50 years!

With behavioral guidance, our specially-trained team members at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry can help make your child’s dental appointment go more smoothly.

Our behavioral guidance techniques include:

Telling, Showing, and Doing

We never take your child by surprise with this approach, which could harm their trust in us. Instead, we tell your child what we’re about to do, show them the instrument we will use, and complete the procedure when they’re ready for us to do so. 

Caring and Friendly Atmosphere

Our team members chose to work in pediatric dentistry because they enjoy working with children. We provide kind and gentle care in our Decatur dental office with friendly smiles and eager attitudes.

Kid-Friendly Communication

Dental terms can be confusing, even for adults. So when we talk to children in our Decatur dental practice, our team uses kid-friendly language to connect with our young patients, so they can understand why and what we’re doing. 

We also offer fun, positive reinforcement for children in our office to encourage the best oral health at home. Read more about our Smile of the Month Club and our Candy Buy Back program during the Halloween season on our Behavior Guidance page. 

Discover Behavior Guidance in Decatur, IL

As a children’s dentist in Decatur, IL, Dr. Bret Jerger offers exceptional dental care to young patients in a friendly, stress-free environment. We love meeting new patients, and we look forward to providing your little ones with excellent dental services so they can maintain a beautiful, healthy smile as they grow.

By the time your child is seven years old, we recommend you start thinking about straightening their teeth. Dr. Bret Jerger is highly skilled in aligning your child's teeth with years of experience and knowledge. 

Children's Braces in Decatur, IL

It's best to bring your child in for an examination with our children's dentist so we can determine the severity of the misalignment or overcrowding. 

Generally, we start children's orthodontic treatment in Decatur, IL, once a child has lost most of their baby teeth and has had most of their permanent teeth grow in. This typically happens between the ages of eight and fourteen.

Starting treatment at this time allows us to practice interceptive actions, guiding incoming or developing teeth. This proactive approach can lead to a more comfortable second phase of treatment and reduce overall treatment times, providing reassurance to parents. 

The interceptive approach allows us to treat your child at a younger age, while they still have most of their baby teeth. Once their adult teeth have emerged, then we can start the second phase of the treatment with braces. Intercepting can make the second phase more comfortable and cut down on treatment times. 

Schedule A Consultation with Our Orthodontist

Dr. Jerger, with his expertise, will be able to determine the best course of action for your child after examining and evaluating their current oral state. This consultation is an important step in keeping parents informed and involved in their child's treatment plan. 

The best way to determine a treatment plan is through an examination. Contact Jerger Pediatric Dentistry today to schedule an appointment with your Decatur, IL, dentist. 

Starting as soon as their first baby tooth appears, Dr. Jerger and his team will begin to monitor your child’s oral development and watch for signs that they may need braces. At this early stage, our priority is to keep baby teeth healthy and intact until they’re ready to fall out on their own.

When will my child lose their baby teeth?

If your child loses a baby tooth too soon because of tooth decay, there may not be enough room for permanent teeth to erupt correctly. The early loss of a baby tooth can cause permanent teeth to come in crooked or at odd angles that will eventually require braces to correct.

Around age six, most children get their first molar. The positioning of this tooth tells Dr. Jerger a lot about how other permanent teeth will erupt. That is why we recommend an evaluation for children’s orthodontics in Decatur around age seven. Even if your child doesn’t need braces at this age, we can take steps to make sure there’s enough space in their jaw for permanent teeth to erupt correctly.

Book an appointment at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry in Decatur, IL

If we find that your child does need braces, you can trust Dr. Jerger and his team to guide you and explain everything you need to know about the process. Please call Jerger Pediatric Dentistry today, and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment to meet with you and your child.

If your child needs orthodontic treatment, they can receive it right here at our Decatur, IL pediatric dentistry office!

We believe it is easier to receive all of your dental and orthodontic treatment under one convenient roof, which is why Dr. Bret works hard to provide our patients with choices to fit everyone’s budget and needs.

Children's Orthodontics in Decatur, IL

We offer both traditional braces as well as an Invisalign treatment program designed specifically for teens. We are also able to place orthodontic appliances such as spacers to help prepare your child or teen’s mouth to receive braces.

Traditional braces and Invisalign are often recognized only for the beautiful, straight smiles they help create. While cosmetic appearance is a huge benefit of orthodontia, there are actually many health benefits to straightening your child’s smile. Overcrowded mouths full of misaligned and crooked teeth are very hard to clean thoroughly, which leaves the teeth vulnerable to decay and even infection over time. Orthodontic treatments solve two problems at once, improving both the appearance and health of your child’s mouth.

Personalized Orthodontics For Your Child

Whatever your child’s orthodontic needs are, we can help! If you would like to discuss your treatment options further, our Decatur, IL pediatric dentist Dr. Bret would be happy to speak with you! Call us at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry to get started.

It's natural to feel concerned that your child might develop crooked teeth. Many children form crowded or overlapping teeth, which is why it's essential to know why teeth become crooked. 

Generally, genetics plays the most significant role in determining if your child will have straight teeth. Decatur, IL patients with straight teeth have enough room in their upper and lower jaws to comfortable fit teeth as they grow in. 

It's also crucial that teeth emerge in the spot dedicated to them. Baby teeth that fall out prematurely can impact how their adult teeth grow in. Once most of a child's baby teeth have fallen out, they can begin treatment for braces in Decatur, IL if needed. 

Ways to Help Your Child Have Straight Teeth

• By fixing bad habits like sucking on a pacifier or sucking your thumb sucking, you can prevent misaligning teeth. After the age of two, it's good to start addressing these habits before they become unhealthy. We should also identify and avoid reverse swallowing, mouth breathing, and tongue thrusting
• Cavities and tooth decay can create longterm adverse effects on your oral health and can lead to crooked or overcrowded teeth. Extensive tooth decay can also lead to premature tooth loss which can affect neighboring teeth
• Routine dental exams and cleanings with Dr. Jerger will allow us to monitor your baby's teeth and how they grow in. We will also be able to identify tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease right as they start

Contact Our Dentist in Decatur, IL for More Information

If you have additional questions or think it's time for your child to see Dr. Jerger, we invite you to give us a call to schedule an appointment with Jerger Pediatric Dentistry.

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we believe baby teeth lay the foundation in your child’s mouth that welcomes their permanent teeth later. From the time your child’s first tooth erupts, he or she must learn proper dental hygiene. When children learn how to clean and care for their mouths properly, it translates to a lifetime of happy smiles and healthy teeth.

Our Dental Team Can Help Keep Your Child's Oral Health On Track

Your child’s baby teeth affect how their permanent teeth grow and develop, and failure to care for your child’s baby teeth can cause damage or decay, which could mean unnecessary time spent with your children's dentist in Decatur, IL.

Bottles, pacifiers, and thumb-sucking can also cause damage and changes in children’s mouths, so it is important to discuss any of these concerns with your children's dentist in Decatur, IL. We can help you make sure that your child’s baby teeth are working the way they are supposed to work.

We Can't Wait to Help Treat Your Child

When looking for a dentist near me, it's important to find someone that offers comprehensive pediatric dental care with a gentle and compassionate touch. Our friendly dental staff works hard to make every dental visit as welcoming and friendly as possible.

We help parents navigate their child's oral health to complement professional dental cleanings in Decatur, IL. This helps set the stage for a successful dental future.

Yes! If your child has experienced a dental emergency, they should be seen right away. Call our emergency dentist in Decaturm IL immediately at (217) 875-3080. Brett Jerger DDS can often provide urgent dental care that same day. 

If you are unsure whether or not your child’s situation requires emergency dental care, you can always call our dentist office to learn more. Our knowledgeable office staff will help you determine if the injury is serious enough to be emergent.

Common pediatric dental emergencies in Decatur, IL include:

• Heavy bleeding after trauma to the mouth
• Heavy bleeding after losing a tooth naturally
• A tooth that has been knocked out
• A cracked or fractured tooth that is accompanied by pain
• Severe swelling or inflammation

Conditions such as teething, mildly chipped teeth, cavities, or minor toothaches are not considered to be pediatric dental emergencies. If your child is complaining of any of these symptoms, our staff will schedule our next-available appointment for you to see our emergency dentist in Decatur, IL during regular business hours.  

Feel Free to Call Our Emergency Dentist in Decatur, IL

Our pediatric dental office has an emergency line available 24/7. If you need to reach us after our regular business hours, simply call us at (217) 875-3080 and follow the instructions listed in our voicemail. Bret Jerger DDS will then be in touch to schedule your emergency dental appointment!

Most dental emergencies in Decatur, IL have a way of letting you know they’re there. Whether it’s through pain or visible damage like a missing tooth, your child’s dental emergency will noticeably interrupt your life. 

You’ll recognize a dental emergency by symptoms such as:

• Pain and discomfort
• Bleeding or pus 
• Swelling, inflammation, and tenderness
• Visible cracks, chips, fractures, or breaks
• Sharp orthodontic wires or brackets
• Teeth in places they aren’t supposed to be, such as outside the mouth or bent at abnormal angles 

If you have a dental emergency on your hands, it will interfere with your daily activities. Dental emergencies impact your ability to sleep, eat, speak, and socialize, and severe emergencies make it feel unbearable to wait even a few hours to see a dentist. 

Children's Dental Emergencies in Decatur, IL

As your pediatric emergency dentist in Decatur, IL, we’ve seen dental emergencies happen time and time again. Common emergency-inducing scenarios include:

• Your child getting hit in the face during tag at school
• Biting into a hard, chewy candy, such as Starbursts or Skittles, and damaging a tooth
• A stray wire from braces coming loose or having a sharp end 
• Children knocking a baby tooth loose or entirely out after falling and hitting their head

If your child has dental pain that’s severe enough to complain about, or if you can see damage to a tooth just by looking in their mouth, you need to call our Decatur, IL dentist at (217) 875-3080.

As a parent, you understand that children can get into all sorts of mischief. Unfortunately, they might even find themselves faced with a dental emergency in Decatur, IL.

If your child hurts their tooth, you might wonder if it’s severe enough to take them to the dentist for emergency treatment. Usually, the answer is yes. 

Even though your child will eventually lose their baby teeth in a natural way, it’s essential to take care of these teeth while they’re still part of your child’s smile. Keeping their baby teeth healthy and strong ensures that their permanent teeth will grow in at the right time and in the right spots. 

Common Children's Dental Emergencies in Decatur, IL

Our Decatur, IL dentist can care for your child’s dental injuries, including common pediatric dental emergencies such as:

• Knocked-out teeth from everyday situations like recess and sports practice
• Extreme orthodontic discomfort if your child has braces 
• Toothaches and sensitivity, including associated ear pain and jaw pain
• Broken and cracked teeth
• Loose or lost tooth fillings and dental crowns
• Infected or abscessed teeth (especially noticeable if your child complains of a persistent bad taste in their mouth or has a fever accompanied by dental pain)

If you need a “dentist near me” to treat your child’s dental emergency, don’t wait to contact us. We will relieve your child’s dental pain and repair their broken tooth. Call us immediately at (217) 875-3080.

A pulpotomy is a dental procedure that allows us to save a severely infected tooth. Also known as a baby root canal, it is a standard procedure performed on baby teeth to prevent tooth loss. 

What Does a Pulpotomy on Baby Teeth Look Like?

Dr. Jerger ensures that the dental procedure is gentle and pain-free with the use of anesthetics. We provide children's sedation dentistry so that your baby can feel comfortable through the process. 

Your children's dentist in Decatur will remove any decayed areas within the tooth. Once the tooth is clear of infection, we will use a filling to seal the tooth and prevent outside bacteria and food particles from entering the tooth and causing reinfection. 

We use a dental crown to stabilize and protect the entire tooth. During each subsequent dental visit, we will check your child's oral health and ensure that the dental crown is a good fit.  

Emergency Pulpotomies

If your child is in severe pain, we can help relieve their pain and treat their infected tooth. You can temporarily relieve pain with ibuprofen, but the pain will eventually return. 

Tooth pain is always a sign of underlying complications or dental emergencies that will only get worse over time. At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we make room in our schedule to provide children emergency dental care in Decatur. 

If your child needs a baby root canal procedure (pulpotomy), your child should no longer feel any pain or discomfort. Root canals will relieve pain, not cause pain!

Is Your Child Experiencing Bad Tooth Pain?

Don't ignore tooth pain; we can manage your child's oral pain and keep them comfortable and happy. Give Dr. Jerger and his dental team a call today to schedule an appointment. 

We know that a dental emergency for your child can be stressful.

For that reason, Dr. Bret Jerger DDS is here to be your children's emergency dentist in Decatur, IL. The most important thing to do in the event of a dental emergency is to remain calm and comfort your child. If you are looking for a gentle and skilled dentist near me, our compassionate dental team offers great care, regardless of the circumstances.

Give our office a call as soon as you can so that we can triage and determine what needs to be done to best help your child. Often we will give you instructions on what to do in the immediate term until you can get to our dentist office.

Dental Emergencies Can Happen at Any Time

If the dental emergency happens during regular business hours, your dentist in Decatur, IL will do their absolute best to make sure that your child can be seen immediately.

If the dental emergency in Mt. Zion happens after hours, don’t worry—we are still here for your family. Patients of record who have an after-hours emergency can call us and talk to a staff member who can give you instructions on what to do.

Contact Your Emergency Dentist in Decatur, IL Immediately

If your child suffers a trauma, we want you to take them to the nearest emergency room and contact us from there.

At our pediatric dental office, we know that a trip to the dentist in Decatur, IL can be a challenge for both you and your child. This is why we work hard to help your child feel comfortable and safe from the moment they walk into our dental office.

Your Child's Safety and Comfort Is Our Highest Priority

Tours of the game room and dental office give children a chance to see who we are and what we do. Our caring dental team makes sure to use kid-friendly terms and explanations so that your child doesn’t feel overwhelmed or anxious when introduced to new experiences. One of the reasons we do this is that they are not afraid to see Dr. Bret or the dental hygienist on their own.

When we see children without their parents in the room, we have found that they are often more relaxed and helpful when asked to follow directions. This independence empowers children to feel like they are in charge of their own dental hygiene!

After their dental appointment, a member of our team will catch you up on everything that happened while your child was with Dr. Bret, including any instructions about expectations until the next visit.

Call Us Today to Schedule Your Child's Next Dental Cleaning

Your child's oral health and well-being are essential to us, and a lifetime of healthy habits starts now. Call Jerger Pediatric Dentistry so we can keep seeing your child regularly. 

As a parent, it might be easy to overlook your child's early oral health needs, especially if they don't even have teeth yet!

In truth, it's not a bad idea to get your baby used to the importance of a clean mouth. Even before their teeth begin to emerge, parents can take a soft cloth and gently wipe their child's gums. As soon as their teeth start to erupt, we recommend beginning regular dental visits and dental cleanings with your dentist in Decatur, IL. 

Dr. Bret Jerger can help parents practice proper oral care in the comfort of their home in between dental visits. 

By starting early, we can help our children develop lifelong healthy habits. 

How Often Does My Child Need a Dental Cleaning?

According to the American Dental Association, routine dental cleanings are recommended every six months as soon as your baby's teeth first start to emerge. 

If your child has oral health problems or recurrent tooth decay or infection, we may recommend more frequent dental visits. 

Dental cleanings in Decatur, IL allow us to detect any abnormal dental health issues, recommend preventive treatments like dental sealants or fluoride supplements, and teach your child how to brush and floss properly. 

Schedule Your Child's Next Dental Cleaning in Decatur, IL

Your child's oral health is extremely important, and their lifetime relationship with their teeth and gums starts with their family and dentist. Dental cleanings in Decatur, IL allow us to keep your child healthy, strong, and informed about their dental health.

Call our friendly dental team today, and we will put you down for your next dental check-up and exam!

As your child grows, their oral health needs are always changing. Obviously, a toddler with baby teeth will have different needs than a six-year-old whose permanent teeth are already erupting.

Dentistry for Your Child’s Changing Needs

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry in Decatur, IL, we’re here for your child as they grow. Some of the dental procedures we will recommend for children are:

• Preventive teeth cleanings – As soon as your little one starts getting teeth, they need professional dental cleanings. We’ll make sure their teeth are healthy and free of decay and gum disease.
• Digital x-rays – The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children with a high risk for cavities get x-rays every six months. Kids with a low risk require less frequent x-rays.
• Tooth-colored fillings – Cavities need to be filled as soon as possible, even in baby teeth. We use tooth-colored fillings on teeth that are obvious when your child smiles.
• Stainless steel crowns – Severely damaged baby teeth may need more protection than a dental filling provides.
• Fluoride treatments and sealants – Both help to keep your child’s teeth strong and healthy and help prevent cavities.

Arrange a Dental Appointment for Your Child at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry

These routine dental appointments are meant to help your child avoid the discomfort of oral health problems in the future. Early treatment can also help you save money on dental bills for your family. If you would like to arrange an appointment with a pediatric dentist in Decatur, please call our dental office, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Our dental office is located at 2101 North Main Street, Decatur, Illinois.

Jerger Pediatric Dentistry is centrally located in Decatur for your convenience. We are situated right on Main Street, and patients can find us right next to Decatur Memorial Hospital.

We are very easy to find! If you have any questions, never hesitate to call us for further directions. We are right off US Highway 51 and within walking distance to multiple bus stops. Patients can access our dental office easily, either using private or public transport.

We Are Always Accepting New Patients

Additionally, we are within a distance of numerous schools within the school district, including St. Thomas The Apostle Catholic Church, and more. Scheduling your child's dental visits is easier than ever, without having to travel across town. 

Your dentist in Decatur, IL, always accepts new patients, so please don't hesitate to call us to make an appointment for your child. If it's your child's first dental visit, please let us know!

We never want our patients to forego necessary dental visits and treatments, which is why we happily work with most major insurance providers. 

Call Jerger Pediatric Dentistry To Book Your Appointment

If you are looking for a dentist near me, we invite you to call today or fill out our convenient online form. We know how busy life gets, but we have all the time in the world for you.

Believe it or not, your child's excellent oral health begins before their first tooth even arrives!

Your Decatur pediatric dentist recommends wiping your son or daughter's gums with a warm washcloth after feedings to help remove any bacteria that is left in their mouth. This also helps them get accustomed to oral care. Once their first tooth arrives, it's time to start brushing with a small, soft-bristled brush.

Why Should My Child Get Routine Dental Cleaning in Decatur, IL?

You'll also want to schedule their first visit with their dentist by the time they turn one year old. Your Decatur dentist will want to see them for checkups (and eventually teeth cleanings) every six months after their first visit.

As they get older, you can begin to incorporate toothpaste with fluoride in it, ensuring they can spit it out after brushing. Parents will need to assist their children with brushing and flossing techniques until around the ages of seven to eight years old.

Schedule Your Child's First Dentist Visit in Decatur, IL

Are you looking for an excellent pediatric dentist in the area? Our dental practice has been taking care of little ones in our community for over 50 years. Contact Jerger Pediatric Dentistry today at (217) 875-3080 to schedule your son or daughter's next dental visit. We would love to welcome them into our dental family!

In most situations, we can care for your child's teeth and gums without the need for hospital sedation, helping them maintain a healthy, happy smile. However, in our Decatur dentist office, we offer hospital sedation in cases where it's most appropriate. 

Who Needs Hospital Sedation?

Hospital sedation is often useful when a child needs extensive or time-consuming dental work, like multiple fillings or oral surgery. With hospital sedation, your child sleeps through the entire procedure, making it a stress-free experience. 

We also may use hospital sedation when we perform dental work for our younger patients who aren't old enough to follow directions properly during a procedure and for our patients with special needs. 

When you visit our Decatur dental office, Dr. Bret Jerger will consider your child's situation and dental needs, recommending hospital sedation if it's appropriate.

Dental Anxiety in Children

Hospital sedation may be a great choice for your child if they suffer from dental anxiety. If your child is nervous about an upcoming procedure, we encourage you to discuss the issue with Dr. Bret so he can help you make the best decision for your little one's dental care. 

Hospital Sedation in Decatur, IL

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we offer sedation dentistry to our young patients to ensure relaxing, productive dental appointments. If your child needs hospital sedation, we urge you to reach out to our knowledgeable team to schedule a consultation.

As a parent, the idea of your child feeling afraid can fill you with a sense of dread. Your attitude plays a significant role in your child feeling comfortable at the dentist. Even if you have a fear of the dentist, it is always a good idea to maintain a positive and even celebratory attitude about your child’s first visit. For a children's dentist in Decatur, IL, who will make dental visits easy and engaging for your little one, we invite you to contact Jerger Pediatric Dentistry to book an appointment.

For children who have anxiety or difficulty sitting still, nitrous oxide is often a safe and reliable way to induce a sense of calm in your little one. Most kids respond well to nitrous oxide, and since it has no long-lasting effects, you can count on your child being back to their regular antics in no time.

Comfortable Children's Dentistry in 62526

For children with disabilities or behavioral challenges, we do work with a local hospital for sedation options. This is especially convenient for children facing extensive treatment such as many fillings or extractions.

We want your child to feel safe and cared for while they are with us. Let's talk about your child’s unique needs when you give us a call.

Sedation is a process that helps induce a state of calm or sleep through the administering of medication under close supervision by a trained medical professional. Our dental clinic offers sedation dentistry in Decatur, IL, when your child finds dental procedures incredibly challenging. For these patients, we use the type of sedation called hospital sedation.

If your child’s teeth require complicated or more lengthy treatments, we will discuss how we can address potentially problematic reactions to care. With hospital sedation, your child blissfully sleeps through the entire procedure.

Several following factors may make your child a good candidate for hospital sedation, such:

• Special needs
• Very young and unable to follow directions
• Time-intensive treatment like multiple fillings
• Intense anxiety or other factors making treatment difficult

Other Methods to Make Dental Treatments Easier

While sedation options rely on medication for efficacy, we advocate softer methods for helping your children. For example, things as simple as kid-friendly vocabulary can go a long way toward addressing concerns. In addition, our staff is trained to avoid specific terminology that might cause fear.

At home, parents also can adopt this strategy, especially by using positive language around their dental care. Parents who set a good example by maintaining positivity around health care have children who experience significantly less anxiety around treatments.

A frenectomy is a procedure that pediatric dentists perform to release a tight frenulum that inhibits the proper mobility of a child’s lips and tongue.

The frenulum is a soft piece of tissue located in your child’s mouth. There are several frenula; a lingual frenulum secures the tongue to the bottom of the mouth; labial frenula attach the lips to the upper and lower gums.

Why Your Child Needs a Frenectomy

If the lingual frenulum is too thick or tight, it can prevent your child from using their mouth properly. Because they can’t lift their tongue, our dentist in Decatur, IL refers to this condition as “tongue-tie.”

A tight lingual frenulum needs to be corrected because it can cause difficulty in your child latching on during nursing or drinking from a bottle.

A labial frenulum that is too big can affect how their lips and tongue develop, impact their speech development, and create spacing issues in the teeth.

We Offer Comfortable Laser Frenectomies

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, our dentist performs frenectomies with a special laser. Our dental team has extensive training with this procedure and have streamlined it to minimize the length of the procedure and healing time for your child.

If your child needs a frenectomy, we should perform the procedure sooner rather than later to minimize the amount of treatment required.

Schedule a Visit at Our Decatur, IL Office to Learn More

If your concerned that your child might need a laser frenectomy, call our Decatur, IL dental office to schedule an appointment.

It can become very frustrating when your baby isn't able to nurse or finish their meals from their bottle, and you need a solution fast!

A lingual frenulum (the piece of skin found under the tongue) that is too tight or thick can keep your baby from being able to nurse or drink from a bottle properly. We refer to this condition as "tongue-tied," and it can be detrimental to their health and development.  

How Does a Laser Frenectomy Work?

Decatur pediatric dentist, Dr. Bret Jerger, uses a dental laser to help reduce the frenulum so your child can move their tongue freely and can more easily get the nourishment they need for healthy development. Using the dental laser makes the procedure more comfortable and streamlined for children as it is quicker, causes less discomfort, and offers an easier healing process than surgery.

If your child is having difficulty latching on when they nurse, they might benefit from a laser frenectomy Mt. Zion, IL. Dr. Jerger would be happy to perform an examination and discuss your concerns with you to determine if this procedure might help your son or daughter. 

Contact Jerger Pediatric Dentistry

Contact Jerger Pediatric Dentistry today to schedule an appointment or to speak with your Decatur, IL dentist.

Dental sealants are an effective preventive measure to protect children's teeth from cavities. They provide a smooth, protective barrier that prevents bacterial buildup and makes maintaining oral hygiene easier.

Early preventive care, including sealants, sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth. The ideal time for a child to start getting dental sealants is during the developmentally crucial period in which a child’s first and second molars emerge. Dental sealants are most effective when applied to the chewing surfaces of these molars soon after they come in. This is usually around 6 years of age for the first molars and around age 12 for the second molars.

Applying sealants at these ages can significantly reduce the risk of decay in a child’s teeth. And molars are particularly vulnerable, as their chewing surfaces have deep grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped and cause cavities.

It’s worth noting that younger children with deep grooves in their primary (baby) teeth can also benefit from sealants, though in these cases it’s important to consult with a dentist to assess the child's specific needs.

Ensuring Healthy Young Smiles with Dental Sealants in Decatur, IL

If you’re a parent in Decatur, IL, looking for a top-quality dental practice with expertise in using a comprehensive set of treatments and solutions, including dental sealants, to ensure the safe development and long-term health of your children’s smiles, contact Dr. Bret Jerger and the stellar Jerger Family Dental team to schedule a consultation!

Yes, every child who participates in sports activities—particularly contact sports like football, basketball, and soccer—should wear a mouthguard to protect their teeth. Parents are often surprised to learn that as much as 40 percent of all dental injuries are sports-related. 

Customized Mouthguards in Decatur, IL

As your child’s Decatur, IL dentist, Dr. Bret Jerger customizes sports mouthguards that offer the ultimate protection for their teeth and mouths.  

Many schools and teams mandate wearing mouthguards, but even so, statistics show that only about two-thirds of athletes wear protective mouth gear. The lack of compliance is partially because generic mouthguards of the “boil and bite” variety don’t fit very well and may be so uncomfortable that your child won't wear it without your supervision.

As part of your son or daughter’s preventive dental care at our Decatur, IL practice, we customize mouthguards that are comfortable because we design them for your child’s unique smile. For this reason, kids are much more likely to follow through with wearing them when parents aren’t around to supervise them.

Contact Jerger Pediatric Dentistry

If your child participates in sports, they require protection for their mouth and teeth. Instead of searching for a “dentist near me,” call Jerger Pediatric Dentistry to schedule an appointment. We'll take impressions of your child’s teeth and customize a high-quality, durable sports guard to protect their precious smile from harm.

Your child's lifelong relationship with their oral health starts at a very young age. Every basic tooth cleaning provides benefits to your child, no matter what age they are. 

Your child's pediatric visits with Dr. Bret Jerger include dental cleaning, digital x-rays, exams, and fluoride treatment all work to track and maintain your child's oral health, along with preventing tooth decay and infection. 

The Benefit of Dental Cleanings in Decatur, IL

• Prevents tooth decay and cavities by eliminating plaque. Your child's precious enamel can be protected with dental cleanings and protective treatments to prevent the build-up of plaque
• Reduces the risk of tooth loss by slowing the build-up of plaque. When children lose their baby teeth prematurely, it can cause lifelong dental problems
• Prevents teeth from staining or appearing yellow 
• Keeps your child's breath fresh by ensuring there are no oral health issues that cause bad breath
• Reduces the risk of disease, infection, and tooth decay
• Lowers costs by identifying issues early before they become costly

Call Us Today to Arrange Your Child's Next Teeth Cleaning

There are numerous advantages to making sure your child maintains their dental cleanings, especially when it comes to preventing future dental problems that can cause lifelong issues.

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, there's no such thing as introducing your baby to their oral health too soon. Even before their baby teeth emerge, we advise that parents gently run a wet cloth over their child's gums to remove any plaque. 

Call Dr. Bret Jerger in Decatur, IL, to arrange your child's next dental cleaning and keep them in step with excellent oral health. 

As a parent, it might be easy to overlook your child's early oral health needs, especially if they don't even have teeth yet!

In truth, it's not a bad idea to get your baby used to the importance of a clean mouth. Even before their teeth begin to emerge, parents can take a soft cloth and gently wipe their child's gums. As soon as their teeth start to erupt, we recommend beginning regular dental visits and dental cleanings with your dentist in Decatur, IL. 

Dr. Bret Jerger can help parents practice proper oral care in the comfort of their home in between dental visits. 

By starting early, we can help our children develop lifelong healthy habits. 

How Often Does My Child Need a Dental Cleaning?

According to the American Dental Association, routine dental cleanings are recommended every six months as soon as your baby's teeth first start to emerge. 

If your child has oral health problems or recurrent tooth decay or infection, we may recommend more frequent dental visits. 

Dental cleanings in Decatur, IL allow us to detect any abnormal dental health issues, recommend preventive treatments like dental sealants or fluoride supplements, and teach your child how to brush and floss properly. 

Schedule Your Child's Next Dental Cleaning in Decatur, IL

Your child's oral health is extremely important, and their lifetime relationship with their teeth and gums starts with their family and dentist. Dental cleanings in Decatur, IL allow us to keep your child healthy, strong, and informed about their dental health.

Call our friendly dental team today, and we will put you down for your next dental check-up and exam!

Your child’s dentist in Decatur, IL provides preventive treatments to help your child maintain excellent oral health and lower their risks for preventable conditions, including cavities.

For older children, we can professionally clean their teeth to get rid of cavity-causing tartar and plaque. However, some children require a little extra assistance, which is where dental sealants come in.

How Do Dental Sealants Work?

A dental sealant is applied over your child’s teeth where it places a barrier between debris and their tooth’s enamel. With a dental sealant, it is difficult for tartar and plaque to form and cause tooth decay.

Your child’s dentist can also apply a fluoride treatment to help strengthen your child’s tooth enamel.

At your child’s six-month checkups, your dentist will always check the integrity of the dental sealant to make sure it is intact. Typically, a dental sealant will last for several years, continuing to reduce cavity risks.

For Dental Sealants in Decatur, IL Contact Us

Helping your child achieve and maintain a healthy smile is the top goal of our dentist and the dental team. So if you would like to establish dentistry with us, or if it’s time for your child’s next checkup, give us a call today.  

Also, reach out for further information about our dental sealants.

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we believe baby teeth lay the foundation in your child’s mouth that welcomes their permanent teeth later. From the time your child’s first tooth erupts, he or she must learn proper dental hygiene. When children learn how to clean and care for their mouths properly, it translates to a lifetime of happy smiles and healthy teeth.

Our Dental Team Can Help Keep Your Child's Oral Health On Track

Your child’s baby teeth affect how their permanent teeth grow and develop, and failure to care for your child’s baby teeth can cause damage or decay, which could mean unnecessary time spent with your children's dentist in Decatur, IL.

Bottles, pacifiers, and thumb-sucking can also cause damage and changes in children’s mouths, so it is important to discuss any of these concerns with your children's dentist in Decatur, IL. We can help you make sure that your child’s baby teeth are working the way they are supposed to work.

We Can't Wait to Help Treat Your Child

When looking for a dentist near me, it's important to find someone that offers comprehensive pediatric dental care with a gentle and compassionate touch. Our friendly dental staff works hard to make every dental visit as welcoming and friendly as possible.

We help parents navigate their child's oral health to complement professional dental cleanings in Decatur, IL. This helps set the stage for a successful dental future.

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, our focus is on helping your child enjoy a happy, healthy, problem-free smile. Preventive dentistry, including dental hygiene at home and routine teeth cleanings, can dramatically lower your child’s risk for cavities and tooth decay. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, problems can still develop.

Comprehensive Cavity Prevention in Decatur, IL

When children get cavities, Dr. Bret Jerger addresses them with dental fillings at our Decatur, IL dental office. If your child has a spot of decay on a tooth, Dr. Jerger will remove it and fill the space with a white tooth-colored filling that blends into their smile.

If decay is extensive or your child has a broken tooth, a dental filling may not be enough to protect it from further damage. In this case, we offer porcelain dental crowns in Decatur, IL, because they cover the entire tooth and allow your child to chew on it comfortably.

Even if your son or daughter doesn’t have a cavity, they can still break or injure a tooth playing sports. As part of preventive dentistry, we also customize high-quality, durable mouthguards to protect your child’s smile from harm.

Call Jerger Pediatric Dentistry To Learn More

If your child has a cavity, or it’s time for their next dental exam and cleaning, please call Jerger Pediatric Dentistry to schedule an appointment.

Pediatric dentists are really the only dentists to go to if your child has a special need. Pediatric dentists are equipped with specialized knowledge and education to best treat your child.

During his residency at Riley Children’s Hospital, Dr. Bret took extra courses to study to become a special needs dentist.

We Have Years of Special Needs Experience

Our office staff has 20-plus years of experience with special needs dentistry in Decatur, IL. Our extra training includes learning how to treat children with Down’s syndrome, autism, and other types of developmental and physically differently-abled needs.

There are many factors to consider when searching for a dentist near me, and we work hard to meet all of them. Our goal is to treat your child with respect and compassion.

Your dentist in Decatur, IL provides special needs along with our compassionate team and caring pediatric dentist.

Call Your Special Needs Dentist to Find Out More

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we know how challenging raising a child can be – with our without special needs. We can take care of their oral health, so you don't have to worry.

Our trained special needs dentist can offer advice and guidance for at-home brushing and flossing, along with any tips that can benefit your child.

From birth, special needs can impact your child’s dental health and put them at risk for oral disease. It’s crucial to find a Decatur, Illinois dentist who specializes in understanding your child's specific oral and dental needs to help them maintain optimal oral health.

Dr. Bret Jerger is a pediatric dentist who has had specific training to care for children with special needs and handle unique issues such as dental anxiety related to their visits. Our preventive approach includes making recommendations to help you meet your child’s specific dental needs.

For example, preventing cavities and gum disease is critical for all children, so Dr. Jerger may recommend products such as fluoride rinses, floss holders, and adaptive aids for toothbrushes that make it easier to keep your child's teeth clean and healthy.

Providing Special Needs Dentistry Care in Decatur, IL

You can also feel confident knowing that our entire dental care team has been trained in special needs dentistry and have the unique skill required to help children who may not be sure what’s happening around them. Keeping your child’s teeth and gums healthy is a team effort, so we encourage you to let us know about any techniques that you have found effective for helping your son or daughter remain receptive and calm.

Contact Our Children's Dentist Office in Decatur

If your child requires special needs dentistry in Mount Zion, Illinois, call Dr. Jerger and his experienced dental team. We are about your child’s safety and well-being and will do whatever it takes to help them get the essential dental care they need.