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Dental visits don't have to be a source of stress for kids. Or parents, for that matter. At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry in Decatur, IL, behavior guidance is built into every visit to help children feel informed, relaxed, and in control.

Behavior guidance during children's dental visits includes techniques like clear, kid-friendly communication, showing instruments before use, and positive reinforcement. In …

There are so many important milestones in a child’s life; whether it’s their first steps, their first day of school, or their first date, each one is special and unique. And regardless of what stage your child is experiencing, their smile goes with them, so you want it to be as healthy and beautiful as it can be.

Let’s take …

A visit to the dentist can feel like a big adventure for a child. New faces, unfamiliar sounds, and shiny instruments can spark curiosity and a few butterflies in the belly. At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we help children feel comfortable through behavior guidance for kids in Decatur, IL, using a simple technique called Tell-Show-Do.

What Is Tell-Show-Do?

Tell-Show-Do is one …

Rebuilding and repairing little smiles is one of my favorite things to do, and modern aesthetic restorations bring back function and confidence. 

Examples of dental restorations include, but are not limited to: 

• Tooth-Colored Fillings
• Custom Dental Crowns
• Dental Bonding

Smile Repair: The Wonders of Modern Restorative Dentistry 

Without restorative dentistry, many of us (including children) would have several missing or …

As a parent, you hope your child never needs any dental treatment beyond a preventive cleaning every six months. But the reality is that sometimes kids fall down and break a tooth or get cavities from improper hygiene or too many sweets.

When this happens, it helps to know that you have a pediatric dental team on your side, ready …

Children’s dental care matters even during the early years when baby teeth are starting to erupt. You may think these teeth don’t matter, but they serve as placeholders for adult teeth, aid in chewing, and help your child develop proper speech.

We recommend bringing your child into our dental office around their first birthday or when the first tooth peeks …

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, my team and I take a preventive approach to children’s dental care, which includes protecting little smiles whenever possible.

Of course, if a tooth is damaged or I find a cavity, I’m quick to provide restorative dentistry.

In this blog, I cover:

• How a Children’s Dentist Protects Your Child’s Teeth
• Common Restorative Dental Procedures in Kids
• …

Your trusted pediatric dentist, Dr. Bret Jerger, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry agree that children should begin seeing a dentist as soon as their first teeth arrive, or by their first birthday. 

Just like their parents, children need preventive care every six months. While age one might seem early, it allows your pediatric dentist to begin building a …

Children should be evaluated for orthodontic treatment around age 7. However, as a pediatric dentist in Decatur, IL, I monitor their oral development from the very first visit and can intervene if problems arise, such as:

• Arch Overcrowding
• Premature Tooth Loss
• Jaw Joint Issues

A Healthy, Beautiful Smile: About Our Orthodontic Options

My dental team and I offer general orthodontics, …

As a pediatric dentist in Decatur, IL, I emphasize prevention, both in my dental office and between checkups. My team and I like to celebrate cavity-free smiles and support kids who present with a clean bill of dental health.

We also advise children, in age-appropriate language, on the best ways to keep their teeth and gums healthy. 

Of course, my …

There is nothing scarier for a parent than their child's dental emergency. There may be a broken tooth, blood, or worse, a tooth knocked out to worry about. The first step in handling your child's dental emergency is to remain calm. The more relaxed you stay, the more comfortable your child will be. 

The next step is to contact your …

Did you know that traditional braces are a regular part of pediatric dentistry? Many parents don’t realize that kids sometimes need orthodontic treatment, and at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to guide you through the process and answer all your questions.

Receiving orthodontic treatment from the same dentist your child is used to and trusts can often make the process …

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we believe the best dental treatment is the one your child never needs. That’s why Dr. Bret Jerger and our Decatur, IL team focus on preventive dentistry to help young patients build strong, healthy smiles that last a lifetime.

Healthy Habits Start Early

Preventive dentistry is about more than just regular cleanings. It’s a proactive approach …

Breastfeeding is about more than just nourishing your baby. It should also serve as an invaluable bonding experience. Unfortunately, many parents find themselves dealing with undue stress when their baby can’t latch or feed effectively. What to do??

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry in Decatur, Dr. Bret Jerger and our caring team provide gentle and precise laser frenectomies to correct tongue …

When your child needs orthodontic treatment, it can feel overwhelming and confusing. You want them to have the healthiest teeth and gums possible, but maybe you aren’t sure whether traditional braces are the way to go or if clear aligner therapy is better.

Fortunately, the expert dental team at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry can provide all the information you need, answer …

A healthy, beautiful smile is one of the best gifts you can give your child! It provides good function for excellent nutrition and healthy eating, not to mention the confidence a beautiful smile brings that helps your child interact with others and achieve their goals. 

Unfortunately, most people weren't born with perfect smiles, and many undergo orthodontic treatment to help …

Finding safe, comfortable dental care for children with special needs can be challenging. At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, our team has the skills and training to put your child at ease so we can deliver the dental treatment they need comfortably.

As a pediatric dentist, Dr. Jerger completed extensive additional training in handling special needs dentistry in Decatur and meeting these …

Kids are experts at turning everyday moments into chaos. This can—and all too often does—include dental emergencies. One second, they’re happily playing; the next, there are tears and a missing tooth. While some situations require immediate action, others just need a little TLC. Knowing the difference can save you time and stress while ensuring the long-term safety of your little …

As a parent, nothing strikes terror in your heart more than when your little one falls and gets up with a bleeding mouth and a knocked-out tooth! Your first reaction is probably panic, but wait—you don't have to worry about your child's smile when you have a trusted pediatric dentist you can rely on during a tooth emergency.

Take a …

You study your child’s teeth. They look straight enough. There don’t appear to be any problems. Regardless, your child needs an orthodontic evaluation with the dentist because braces are about more than smile aesthetics.

Considerations include:

• Smile aesthetics
• Bite alignment
• Oral development

Top Reasons to Book Your Child’s Orthodontic Evaluation

An evaluation helps your child’s pediatric dentist in Decatur, IL, …

Are you concerned about your child’s overbite or overcrowded teeth? Of course, these aesthetic concerns cause worry, but orthodontics is about more than smile beauty. Tooth misalignment and crowding can interrupt oral development and lead to dental health complications.

In this blog, our children’s dentist in Decatur shares:

• Tips and recommendations to help you find the best orthodontic care for …

As a parent, nothing is more gut-wrenching than watching your child suffer from a toothache. The tears, discomfort, and fear of the dentist's chair are a scenario no loving mom or dad wants to experience. But what if there was a simple, painless way to spare your little one from the agony of cavities?

Dental sealants could be the answer …

Dental emergencies can be unsettling or even downright scary. Thankfully, by staying calm and knowing what to do when an emergency strikes, we can dramatically reduce pain in the moment and boost the chances of a fast and complete recovery.

Here are three common dental emergencies and what you should do if they arise.

Knocked-Out Teeth

Losing an adult tooth, …

When your child is scared and in pain, it’s the worst feeling in the world. So, when a dental emergency strikes, it’s essential to take a deep breath, stay calm, and know what to do. Your Decatur, IL, dentist provides quick and reliable care and will alleviate your child’s discomfort and restore their smile.

So, when you’re looking for a …

Orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry focusing on proactively addressing dental misalignment and other jaw irregularities. The goal is to improve smile appeal and bite integrity. As a result, orthodontics improves overall oral health by addressing issues like overcrowding, overbites, and underbites. By correcting these issues, orthodontics helps patients achieve healthier, more attractive smiles and better oral function.

How …

Finding the right emergency pediatric dentist is vital for ensuring your child's dental development and health during urgent situations. Knowing what to look for can make all the difference when your child needs immediate care. Here are some tips on finding an emergency pediatric dentist to provide the best care for your child.

Prioritize a Dentist’s Availability and Accessibility

The …

Nothing is more stressful than when your child is experiencing a dental emergency. It's hard not to feel panic when your little one's tooth is knocked out or broken!

But when you have an emergency dentist in Decatur, IL, you can rely on, you can rest assured that your child is in good hands and will soon be back on …

Orthodontics is a field within dental science dedicated to preventing and treating facial and tooth-alignment irregularities. Orthodontics aims to enhance a person’s smile aesthetics and bite integrity by addressing crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites.

This field of dentistry involves a variety of treatments, from traditional metal braces to more discreet ceramic braces, and clear aligner systems, all of whose …

Updated in Nov 2025

When your child gets hurt, your heart stops for a second; it’s just part of being a parent. And when the injury involves their mouth, teeth, or gums, that worry can skyrocket. At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we want you to know this: you’re never facing a dental emergency alone! Whether it’s a playground tumble, a sports-related …

Pediatric orthodontics in Decatur, IL, and preemptive treatments like space maintainers and palatal expanders are sometimes necessary to optimize your child’s oral health. These measures also help with speech development and nutrition. Additionally, early intervention may mean your child spends less time in braces later or forgoes orthodontics altogether.

Straight teeth and an aligned bite also improve your child’s confidence …

Is your child facing dental work for multiple teeth? This can feel daunting for you as their parent and for them! 

But the good news is that there are options for sedation dentistry in Decatur, IL, that can help them comfortably and safely receive the dental treatment they need without having a bad experience. Hospital sedation allows Dr. Bret to …

Modern orthodontics in Decatur, IL, can help your child spend less time in traditional braces. Our early intervention and constant monitoring of your child’s oral development means we can intervene with palatial expanders and other techniques to help guide adult teeth into desirable or straighter positions.

Additionally, we can assist your teen with discreet orthodontics through Invisalign®.

Children’s Orthodontics Near …

When your child experiences dental pain or a tooth emergency, it can be stressful and overwhelming! The good news is that Dr. Bret Jerger is the emergency dentist in Decatur, IL, your family can rely on. If your child has a tooth emergency, you can contact Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, and even if it's after hours, we'll instruct you on the …

If you think your child needs to be a teenager before they might need orthodontic treatment, you might be surprised to learn that braces and other orthodontic treatments are a regular occurrence in pediatric dentistry. Although many children won’t need orthodontic treatment, having your regular dentist perform orthodontic treatment is best since your child will already be familiar and comfortable …

One of the most important aspects of orthodontic treatment is home care. This is true because if your child wears braces in Decatur, IL, and doesn't maintain a diligent brushing and flossing routine, they could develop tooth decay or staining around the brackets, which will mar their beautiful smile once the braces are removed. 

So here are some tips for …

Children’s orthodontics in Decatur, IL, is a way to provide your child with straight and healthy teeth.

Because of our early intervention practices, we can also provide treatments that mean less time in braces in the future. Additionally, early intervention can mean your child will never need orthodontics!

Let’s explore orthodontic options and why they’re essential.

Spacers

Spacers look like …

When it comes to your child's dental health, achieving a straight, attractive smile is often a top priority. Not only does a straight smile improve appearance, but it also boosts confidence and contributes to better oral health. With braces in Decatur, IL, your child can overcome tooth and jaw misalignments and attain a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. 

…

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that every child deserves a confident and radiant smile. Sometimes, a child might need orthodontic treatment to correct bite and jaw misalignments and improve their oral health, speech, and appearance.  

Before exploring the benefits of orthodontic treatment, we'd like to announce June's Smile of the Month Club! 

Congratulations to these excellent brushers and flossers …

Dental emergencies can be scary! Especially if it's your little one experiencing pain or trauma. The good news is that emergencies aren't so overwhelming when you have a pediatric dentist you can rely on.

Dr. Bret Jerger, your trusted children's emergency dentist in Decatur, IL, has some dental emergency management tips. 

What to Do During a Dental Emergency in Decatur

…

Smile of the Month Club

Summer is almost here! Naturally, kids everywhere are counting down the days until summer vacation. But it’s not all fun in the sun.  Between end-of-school-year activities and the ice cream, sodas, and snacks of the coming months can put a strain on the health of children’s teeth and gums.

Frankly, kids have every right to …

Spring has well and truly sprung. With Easter now behind us, the kids are in the final stretch of the school year, and all eyes are now on summer vacation. Here at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we know that this time of year, between Easter candy and end-of-school-year activities, can be a bit high-risk for children’s teeth and gums.

While your …

Tooth decay can impact people of all ages, but children can be especially prone to cavities. Fortunately, dental sealants can mitigate your child’s risks and keep their smile healthy.

What Are Dental Cavities?

A cavity is an area of decay on a tooth that requires treatment from your child’s Decatur dentist. Treatment includes decay removal and restoration with a tooth-colored …

This year was the 21st annual Give Kids A Smile event, which provides underserved children with free oral health care. Our office helped 32 children and donated over $22,000 in dental care including cleanings, fillings, extractions, space maintainers and crowns. Our team has been helping local families since this program started. We had a wonderful time helping these kids and …

Braces have long been considered a rite of passage for youngsters. Everyone, including kids and teens, can benefit from having straighter teeth and an aligned bite. Plus, braces can give you a more attractive smile. But before you take your kid to get braces, we want to review some need-to-knows about pediatric orthodontics. 

Why Do Kids Need Braces?

Many people …

Dr. Bret agrees with the American Dental Association that children should receive an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early orthodontics, also called interceptive orthodontics, can give your child the best opportunity for lifelong oral health and straight, symmetrical teeth. Dr. Bret can evaluate your child’s smile and recognize early signs of issues when they’re most treatable.

Every child is unique, …

The holidays are upon us, and everyone is excited about the school break and various fun activities. The Jerger Pediatric Dentistry team wants you to enjoy your time, but remember to take care of your teeth and gums!

End-of-the-year celebrations often mean sweets and indulgences. There is cake and candy, soda and snacks. It’s a time of happiness and yummy …

If you're looking for a key to unlock your child's best oral hygiene practices, then the team at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry would like to welcome you to our Smiles of the Month Club! Any child with a checkup free from new cavities has their photo displayed on our special wall. We've strategically placed this display in a prominent place so …

It's that time again! We love honoring the kids in our Decatur pediatric dental practice who go the extra mile each month and work hard to keep their teeth clean and problem-free. So we're excited to honor September's excellent brushes and flossers!

How to Become a Smile of the Month Club Member

Building good habits with consistent brushing and flossing …

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we have a surprising secret weapon in the fight against cavities and tooth decay: FUN! Our firm belief is that your child's dental care becomes exponentially more effective when our finest dental treatments are infused with positivity and a good attitude. One way we accomplish this is through our Smiles of the Month Club!

Any child …

Dental sealants are an excellent option for protecting your little one's smile from tooth decay and cavities. Children often have more difficulty brushing and flossing their teeth properly because of their developing coordination, and dental sealants provide extra protection from developing cavities.

A dental sealant is a thin plastic coating that Dr. Jerger applies to the chewing surface of your …

We want to take a minute to honor June's Smiles of the Month Club winners! Below you'll see a list of all the kids in our practice that were cavity-free at their dental checkups in June. We love to honor and congratulate these kids who worked so hard at home over the months brushing, flossing, combating the sugar bugs, and …

Jerger Pediatric Dentistry is a children’s dental practice with comprehensive services. Your child’s smile is our top priority, and we believe in the importance of establishing good oral health at a young age. Dr. Bret Jerger is a skilled and experienced pediatric dentist in Decatur who offers orthodontics in Decatur, IL. 

Traditional Braces

Traditional metal braces are widely used for …

Updated September 15, 2025.

Parents often ask us whether there’s a genuine difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. First, a significant common thread between the two is that both dentists and orthodontists play vital roles in monitoring oral development and providing care and long-term education to children, teens, and parents alike. Both work toward the same goal, a healthy …

The health of your child’s smile directly impacts their overall health and wellbeing. Without healthy teeth and gums, we can develop tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, and other health conditions, like heart disease. Some of these health issues can even be life-threatening. 

To ensure your child’s oral health stays top-notch, we recommend visiting the dentist regularly for preventive dental …

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, our primary goal is to ensure that your son or daughter has the best experience possible each and every time they visit us. Many adults suffer from dental fear or phobia that keeps them from getting the dental care they need to maintain a healthy smile. This anxiety and fear often stem from bad experiences at …

Dental sealants in Decatur, IL, lower cavity risks in children and adults by creating a barrier between plaque and tartar and the protective tooth enamel.

When considering your child for dental sealants and other preventive measures, it’s more about their oral health profile than a particular age. For example, if your child is susceptible to tooth decay, their pediatric dentist …

Summer is upon us, which means vacations from school and potential travel plans for area families.

The team at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry wants you and your loved ones to enjoy all that summer has to offer. But we also remind little ones to be vigilant with their oral health this season. If it’s time for a checkup and teeth cleaning, …

Whether it’s pediatric braces in Decatur, IL, or dental sealants to protect your child’s teeth from cavities, you can count on us to be here every step of the way.

The team at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry is proud to promote optimal oral health in area children, which is why we offer Smile of the Month Club and other incentives for …

Happy March, everyone! Spring is right around the corner, and it’s the time of year when long-dormant flowers begin to bloom and peek their heads above the ground, yearning for warm sunlight. We, too, look forward to spring so we can enjoy the warmer weather and how the world around us wakes up from deep winter sleep. It’s also the …

Did you know that cavities–also known as tooth decay or caries–are among the most common chronic diseases children face in the United States? Untreated cavities can be painful and lead to issues with eating, speaking, learning, and playing. Studies even show that children with poor oral health miss more school or get lower grades than children with good oral hygiene. 

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The Decatur District Dental Society will be participating in the 20th annual Give Kids a Smile Day on Friday, February 4. 2022. Local dentists and their staffs will be donating treatments and supplies to approximately 200 children in the central Illinois area. 

Celebrate with Jerger Pediatric Dentistry

"Give Kids a Smile Day is meant to accomplish two things," said Pediatric …

Jerger Pediatric Dentistry would like to share some exciting news with you.

Dr. Bret Jerger recently received a distinct honor from Prairieland Service Coordination, Inc. (PSCI) for his commitment to caring for persons with disabilities. In December 2021, Dr. Bret and our team were recognized at the Focus on Hope Luncheon hosted by PSCI. There were many speakers, including Ms. …

Everyone at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry is delighted to announce the December 2021 Smile of the Month Club members! These kids have astounded us time and again with their commitment to brushing and flossing every day. Not only are their teeth sparkling and bright, but their smiles are healthy and cavity-free. 

Please join us in congratulating these smiling superstars! 

Prevent Cavities …

Finding the right providers for your family is essential when it comes to protecting their health, and your dentist is no exception. Achieving excellent oral health starts at a young age and continues for a lifetime. Creating exceptional experiences for your child when they visit the dentist is essential for setting the stage for a lifetime of optimum dental health. …

Happy Holidays from Jerger Pediatric Dentistry! It's December and time to announce and congratulate our November Smile of the Month Club members. Each month Dr. Jerger and his team like to honor the children who show exemplary home care with brushing and flossing routines that result in a cavity-free smile.

An excellent home care routine of brushing twice daily and …

Our family dentist in Decatur is always pleased to recognize young patients who present with clean bills of oral health.

Of course, October was the month for Halloween candy and much celebration. Despite this, several children enjoyed cavity-free checkups at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry!

Healthy smiles start with regular brushing and, eventually, flossing at home—at least twice daily or following all …

Happy October! Now that the busy month of September is behind us, we are ready to celebrate several of our young patients who have done well to brush and floss their teeth. 

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we believe in celebrating children on a job well done, especially when they brush and floss their teeth. For the month of September, we …

It’s that time again: Smile of the Month Club announcements! At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we celebrate small smiles and growing teeth that are strong and free of cavities. Our Decatur children’s dental team enjoys helping kids and teens keep their teeth and gums healthy, and we always encourage our young patients and their families to maintain excellent oral health at …

School is back in session, and summer is slowly shedding its leaves in exchange for fall foliage and cooler weather. 

As we greet the new season, we would like to bid a hearty farewell to the last signs of summer by announcing our July 2021 Smile of the Month Club. 

We Celebrate Kids and Their Commitment to Dental Care

Summer …

Dr. Brett Jerger, your child’s dentist in Decatur, IL, loves nothing more than encouraging his young patients to take care of their smiles. This includes brushing, flossing, and cutting back on sweets. When our young patients leave our dental office with a clean bill of oral health, we like to celebrate their achievement, which encourages them to keep up the …

A healthy smile takes a lot of work. You have to brush, floss, and visit your Decatur, IL dentist regularly. Because it takes work to achieve and maintain a healthy smile, Dr. Bret Jerger is happy to recognize those who have demonstrated excellent oral care and healthy dental habits.

It was our pleasure to add new names in May 2021 …

It’s that time again! As we are every month, we are excited to announce April’s list of superstar brushers and flossers. We love celebrating our little patients and their beautiful, cavity-free smiles by including them in our Smile of the Month Club. 

Congratulations to all of our Smile of the Month Club members! We are so proud of you, and …

Dr. Jerger and our team love encouraging our young patients to keep their smiles strong and healthy by practicing good oral hygiene. One of the ways we inspire our young patients to keep their smiles in top shape is to spark their curiosity about dental care and meet them on their level. We genuinely take interest in every one of …

Our Decatur, IL dentist loves inspiring young patients to keep their teeth and gums healthy. This includes encouraging regular brushing and flossing and celebrating a job well done.  

One of the ways we encourage our young patients is through the Smiles of the Month Club. The children we treat work hard to earn their memberships, which means they’re paying close …

Our dentist in Decatur, IL is passionate about keeping your children's teeth and gums as healthy as possible. One of the ways we keep children on track is through our Smile of the Month Club.

Many of your child's formative habits begin early. Our Smile of the Month Club helps us practice preventive dentistry in Decatur, IL, which can help …

On February 5th 2021, Jerger Pediatric Dentistry participated in the annual AAPD Give Kids A Smile Day to promote the need of proper dental care and funding for children and teens.  This year over $19,000 was donated in dental services and over 30 children were treated. We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment and could not have done it without …

We enjoy helping children keep their teeth healthy, and at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, one way we help children achieve good oral health is with our Smile of the Month Club.

Good oral health habits begin at a young age. With the Smile of the Month Club, we hope to educate our young dental patients on how to maintain good oral …

Who Needs Orthodontics in Decatur, IL?

Orthodontics in Decatur, IL help to straighten your teeth and correct a bad bite. If your teeth are crooked, crowded inside your mouth, protrude from your mouth, or do not meet correctly to create a good bite, an orthodontist can use braces to help you rectify those issues.

With time and care, braces and …

Health emergencies are always scary. When a health emergency occurs involving your teeth or gums, you may wonder what to do and who to call. At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we are here to help you during your child’s dental emergency.

Common dental emergencies include severe tooth pain, loss of a tooth, a cracked or broken tooth, trauma, swelling, bleeding, infection, …

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we love helping children achieve healthy smiles, and we also enjoy complimenting them on their hard work. Maintaining a healthy smile depends a lot on the brushing and flossing routines instilled in the child.

Our team goal is to educate children and help them take pride in their efforts and their checkup results.

Jerger Pediatric Dentistry’s …

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that all healthy smiles begin with excellent preventive dentistry. 

Our job as your pediatric dentist is to help your children learn smart oral health habits beginning at a young age so they can carry those habits with them for life. We work hard to teach them correct brushing and flossing techniques in a way …

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that all healthy smiles begin with excellent preventive dentistry. 

Our job as your pediatric dentist is to help your children learn smart oral health habits beginning at a young age so they can carry those habits with them for life. We work hard to teach them correct brushing and flossing techniques in a way …

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we believe in setting a solid foundation of preventive treatments and excellent at-home oral health care. 

Dental cleanings in Decatur, IL are performed by highly skilled and experienced dental professionals. 

Neglecting to keep up with your bi-annual teeth cleaning routine keeps Dr. Bret Jerger from monitoring your son's or daughter's oral health and identifying any dental …

Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your son or daughter's precious smile. The confidence that your child gets from their smile is priceless.

With that said, orthodontic treatment is also a financial investment. The good news is that there are many ways to fit your child's braces comfortably into your budget.

How Much Do Braces in Decatur, IL Cost?

Orthodontic …

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we work extra hard to provide exceptional dentistry to children, regardless of their mental and physical capabilities. We recognize that some children may have special needs that stem from developmental delays, sensory issues, autism, physical requirements, or behavioral impairments.

Dr. Bret Jerger has extensive training in special needs children's dentistry. He has a dedicated dental staff …

The Decatur District Dental Society will be participating in the 19th annual Give Kids A Smile Day on Friday, February 7 st, 2020. Local dentists and their staff will be donating treatments and supplies to approximately 200 children in the Central Illinois area.

Free Dental Services in Decatur, IL For Children

“Give Kids A Smile is meant to accomplish two …

Updated September 15, 2025.

Breastfeeding provides your baby with more than nutrition. It’s also an invaluable, shared bonding experience that supports growth, immune health, and emotional connection. Sometimes, however, many new parents face frustration and anxiety when discovering their baby struggles to feed properly. These challenges can create stress for the entire household, leading parents to wonder if something more …

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we believe in the importance of children’s dental care. Although we understand that your child’s smile is only one component of their overall health, we regularly see firsthand the difference that a beautiful smile can make. We know that early childhood dental care sets your child up for lifelong success. 

As your children’s dentist in Decatur, …

Benefitting Operation Enduring Support

We will pay $1 per pound(up to 5 pounds per child) for your unopened Halloween candy. Must be accompanied by an adult. Candy will be collected Monday, November 4, 2019 from 8am-5pm at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry in Decatur, IL. 

Head on over to 2101 N Main St. on the day of the event and for more …

If you had braces as a child, you probably remember a mouth full of metal and not being able to eat some of your favorite Halloween candies. 

While it’s true that orthodontics have come a long way in recent years, it is still hard for many pediatric orthodontic patients to deal with having braces or other devices in their mouth. …

Our top Decatur, IL pediatrician understands dental anxiety, especially in children, and he has a lot of experience helping even the most anxious child learn to enjoy the dentist’s office.

If your child suffers from dental anxiety in Mt. Zion, IL or the surrounding areas, we can help.

What Is Dental Anxiety in Decatur, IL?

Dental anxiety is a fear …

Updated in Nov 2025

Summer is here, the sun is shining, and kids all over town are ready to play ball! Whether your child is swinging a bat, kicking a soccer ball, or showing off their champion-level cartwheels, summer sports bring big smiles, and sometimes a few accidental “oops!” moments. At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to help keep those …

June and July are the perfect months for school dental exams and check-ups in Decatur, IL. Call Jerger Pediatric Dentistry today to make an appointment before the rush of the new school year begins!

Sometime between the ages of six and nine, kids are usually ready to brush their teeth by themselves. Your family dentist in Decatur can help teach them proper techniques at their dental exams and cleanings, but how can you ensure they brush well at home?

Make Sure They’re Ready For A Dental Visit At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry

Only you know …

Every parent wants to protect their child from damaging and costly oral problems. When it comes to teeth and gum health, ignorance is definitely not bliss! Working together with your pediatric dentist in Decatur ensures that your little one never experiences serious gum disease.

Here’s what else you should know about gum disease:

1. Gum Inflammation Is a Red Flag

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Give Kids a Smile Day is a national event where dentists like Dr. Jerger and Jerger Pediatrics give young kids dental treatments at no cost! Jerger Pediatrics was featured on the front page of the Herald & Review. Click here to see the article. 

As a parent, you have so many things to think about for your son or daughter each day. While their oral preventive care appointments may not be at the top of your priority list, here are a few reasons why these visits are so essential for your child's oral health.

#1: Preventive Visits Allow Your Dentist to Monitor Your Child's …

Wishing our patients and their families in Decatur, IL a happy and safe Fourth of July from Jerger Pediatric Dentistry! Don't forget to give our dental office a call to schedule your next dental appointment! 

It’s not easy to face the fact that your child needs orthodontic treatment. You might have concerns about the cost involved and whether or not there will be any unforeseen complications. With a bit of planning, however, you can ensure that orthodontic treatment goes well for both you and your child.

To learn more about orthodontics, we invite you to …

Here are the steps to take if your child loses a tooth in an injury.

1. Pick up the tooth by the crown, which will protect any of its remaining roots.

2. Gently rinse the tooth and place it in a container of milk to keep it healthy.

3. Contact us immediately so we can try to reinsert and save …

When your child has special needs, it is often hard to find the dental care you need for them. The good news is that Dr. Bret Jerger, your pediatric dentist in Decatur, IL has extensive training in caring for children with special needs as he has undergone additional years of residency at Riley Children's Hospital.

Your child will not only …

Going to the dentist can feel frightening, especially for a child. First impressions at the dentist are critical, as many adults who are fearful about dental appointments report that it stems from a bad experience they had as a child at the dentist. This is why you may want to consider visiting a pediatric dentist in Decatur, IL for your …

Starting good oral habits early for your little one are key to a lifetime of amazing oral health. We encourage cleaning your teeth early and having your child seen for their first dental appointment. There is a new recommendation by the American Association of Pediatric Dentists about the care of your child's teeth.

When To Start Using Fluoride Toothpaste

The …

Our annual Give Kids A Smile Day was a success!  We served 25 children - donating $15,000 in treatments.  This program, which provides one day of free dental care to underserved children, was launched by the American Dental Association.   To date, more than five million children have been treated by over 10,000 dentists and 30,000 dental team members.  We have …

Don't forget to schedule your child's dental checkup for the new year!

A special thank you to our patients, families and the local schools who brought in over 400 pounds of candy!  This has been our most successful Candy BuyBack program to date, and we know our troops will love not only the candy, but also the personalized cards for our men and women serving overseas.  Again, a huge thank you to …

A special thank you to my patient, Wyatt Bauman, for packing a lunch for me and bringing it with him to his dental visit!  Your kindness was felt by everyone in our office and brought smiles to our faces!  Thank you Wyatt!

The 26th annual Coats for Kids drive begins today.  Our office, at 2101 North Water Street, is a drop off location.  We are collecting new or used outerwear in good condition which will be distributed to children in our community.  If you have any coats you would like to donate, please bring them to our office.

 Dr. Bret and the staff at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry wish our patients and their families a happy and healthy school year! Come visit our dental office in Decatur, IL when it is time for your next dental check up, or just stop by to say hello! Our entire dental team is excited to hear from you, so let us know …

It's not too early to schedule your child's school dental exam.  Call our office today to set up your appointment and miss the fall rush!

Paw print ministries of central Illinois visited our exhibit today. These dogs offer comfort to the community during times of distress. 

Want To Attend Events Like This? Contact Jerger Pediatric Dentistry

Do you want to learn more about community events like this? Call Jerger Pediatric Dentistry today! Our friendly dental team in Decatur, IL will answer all of your questions …

Join us 6:00 pm, May 2, at the Decatur Public Library for a lullabye concert featuring the Millikin University string arts ensemble.  Enjoy a special musical performance followed by children's story time, fingerplays and a presentation from our staff on developing proper bedtime brushing techniques.  Don't forget to come in pajamas!  This will be a special evening for families - …

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we love creating community events for our dental patients and community members to enjoy. Our partnership with Central Illinois Children's Museum has created a fun, educational exhibit for children of all ages!  It's open now and ready for you to explore.

Learn More By Calling Our Dental Office

Do you want to learn more about community …

Come see our new interactive Healthy Mouth exhibit at the Central Illinois Children's Museum! It's a fun game, inside a life-sized mouth with giant toothbrushes, that teaches children the importance of brushing.  It's located on the second floor of the children's museum. 

Call Jerger Pediatric Dentistry To Learn More

If you want to learn more about Jerger Pediatric Dentistry or …

Our annual Give Kids A Smile day was a success!  We provided 23 children with dental care - donating over $12,000 in services.  A special thank you to our staff who always go above and beyond in helping these children.  Give Kids a Smile Day is a national event which provides underserved children with free, comprehensive dental care.

Exciting events are happening with Jerger Pediatric Dentistry in conjunction with National Children's Dental Health Month. 

Celebrate National Children's Dental Month With Us

Give Kid's A Smile Day is this Friday, February 3rd. Give Kid's A Smile Day is a fabulous event in Decatur, IL when our dental office provides free dental care to children living in the local community. …

Wishing our patients and their families a very Merry Christmas and joyous holiday season!

Wishing our patients and their families a Happy Thanksgiving!

A heartfelt thank you to our patients, families and community for all of your candy donations!  We collected over 300 pounds which will be shipped overseas to our service men and women.  We could not have done this without everyone's help!

Jerger Pediatric Dentistry's staff and families volunteering at Scovill Zoo's annual Boo At The Zoo.  A great time was had by all!  Scovill Zoo in Decatur, Illinois is one of many zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums with 96 species spanning six continents and around 500 animals in residence. 

Learn More About Community Events: Call Us Today!

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Don't forget this Friday, November 4th, is our annual Candy Buy Back Program.  Bring your unopened candy to our office at 2101 North Main Street between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5p.m.  We will be paying $1.00 per pound of candy - up to $5.00 per child.  All collected candy will be sent to our military men and women …

At Jerger Pediatric Dentistry, we love bringing the Decatur, IL community together for fun events. Head over to our dental office for the Candy Buy Back! The Candy Buy Back is Friday, November 4 from 8am-5pm.  Get paid for your Halloween candy!  All collected candy will be sent to our troops overseas along with hand written cards from our patients …

It's that time again at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry! Our dental office has begun our collection of Coats for Kids! 

Find Our Dental Office In Decatur, IL

If you have a winter coat you'd like to donate, please bring it to our lobby's dropbox at 2101 N. Main Street. With close proximity to US Highway 51 and local bus routes, it …

Don't forget to schedule fall dental exams for the 2016-17 school year! Getting checkups done when school is back in session can be a real hassle. We still have appointments available give us a call at our Decatur IL office today at (217)875-3080 to make your appointment.
 

Congratulations to our local Girl Scouts #359 who earned their Dental Health Badge by learning and executing good dental hygiene.  They also earned their Rosie Petal Badge for making the world a better place through their work with Dr. Ulis' medical mission group for the Massai village in Kenya.  The troop organized the donation of 250 toothbrushes from Jerger Pediatric …

This time of year is perfect for enjoying the outdoors, but accidents can happen.  If your child has an injury to his/her mouth when our office is closed, please contact our emergency number at (217) 853-8702.  Enjoy your summer!

We have an exciting new exhibit coming to the Central Illinois Children's Museum in the spring of 2017!  Stay tuned for upcoming information on Jerger Pediatric Dentistry's interactive exhibit which will feature a life-sized mouth. Children will be able to explore and learn about their teeth and the proper ways to keep them healthy.

Call Our Office To Learn More …

Updated in August 2025

It's scary when your child has a dental emergency or experiences tooth pain!

Summer is approaching, and so are dental injuries related to outdoor activities and sports. Kids may get injured while enjoying the days of summer, but fortunately, there are many ways to prevent or minimize dental emergencies. Whether it's a chipped tooth or a …

We can now accept payments through our mobile phone website.  If you are interested, please contact our office and we will activate this service to your phone. 

Mobile phone payments - one more feature from Jerger Pediatric Dentistry to make your dental visit more convenient!

Join the Smiles of the Month Club at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry

Check the Herald and Review the first Sunday of each month for our Smiles of the Month ad, which features our patients with cavity free check-ups!