Growth and Development in Decatur, IL: Why Children’s Dental Care Matters

April 30, 2026
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Posted By: Dr. Bret Jerger

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 through the gums. If you notice issues before then, we encourage you to reach out to our dental team.

Dentistry That Grows with Your Child

Early dental visits are about counting teeth, familiarizing your child with the dental setting, and building a fun and trusting relationship. By keeping it positive, we hope to instill lifelong adherence to dental care and to forgo adult dental phobia.

During these early visits, we are carefully monitoring your child’s oral development, but they tend not to notice because we make their visit fun!

Of course, we add age-appropriate treatments and services throughout their journey with us. Soon, counting teeth and careful monitoring graduates to:

  • Comprehensive Checkups
  • Professional Teeth Cleanings
  • Fluoride Treatments
  • Dental Sealants
  • Restorative Dentistry
  • Orthodontic Evaluations

Along the way, we can intervene if issues arise. For example, we offer interceptive orthodontics to aid in oral development.

Our aim is to follow your child’s growth and development in Decatur, IL, and provide the treatments and services needed along the way.

Children’s Dentistry Is a Collaboration

Between six-month checkups, you’re tasked with caring for your child’s smile. Of course, we are always here to answer questions and provide advice on:

  • Cleaning Your Child’s Teeth
  • Pacifier Use
  • Thumb Sucking
  • Nutrition

When it’s time for your little one to graduate to independent brushing, we are happy to provide careful instructions to ensure their success.

Contact Your Child’s Dentist in Decatur

If you would like more information about Jerger Pediatric Dentistry or if you would like to schedule an appointment for your child, call us today at (217) 875-3080.

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