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 “oops,” or something totally unexpected, our team is here to help your child feel safe, soothed, and smiling again as quickly as possible.
Give Us a Call Right Away!
In any pediatric dental emergency (big, small, or “I’m not sure what this is”) your first move should be to contact us immediately.
We’re your emergency dentist in Decatur, IL, and that means we’re trained, prepared, and ready to guide you through moments like these with calm instructions and compassionate care.
Not sure if it’s truly an emergency? That’s okay! Call us anyway. We’ll help you decide the best next steps, whether that’s an urgent same-day visit or at-home first aid until your child can be seen. Helping families through stressful moments is a big part of what we do.
What Happens at the Emergency Visit?
When you arrive, Dr. Bret Jerger will take the lead, gently and reassuringly. He’ll examine the injured area, talk through what happened, and let your child set the pace so they feel safe and understood.
We may take x-rays to get the full picture of the injury, and we’ll explain every step in a kid-friendly way. Our goal is to keep your child as comfortable, calm, and pain-free as possible throughout the entire appointment.
We know that no parent likes to see their child hurting, and we take that to heart. Our emergency care is always delivered with patience, empathy, and a soft touch.
If Your Child Needs Us, Don’t Wait!
When a dental emergency happens in Mt. Zion or Decatur, IL, time matters. If your child needs to be seen immediately, we’ll make room in our schedule that same day so Dr. Bret can help.
You focus on comforting your child, and we’ll focus on restoring their smile.