ALGONQUIN – An Algonquin dentist needs help finding a loose tooth.

Mickey Molar, a 10-by-10-foot balloon that has been the mascot for All Smiles Dental for 17 years, floated away Friday, said treatment coordinator Katie Stirneman. Dental office employees were hosting the annual children's games at Algonquin's Founders' Days when the helium-filled balloon got loose from the van where it was tied, she said.

“We never really paid any attention to him,” Stirneman said. “Usually, he's just over there doing his thing, tied down."

Mickey Molar was hundreds of feet in the air when staff said they noticed the balloon floating away.

“Everyone was freaking out,” Stirneman said. “It was upsetting because he was already so far.”

Staff called the Algonquin police, reached out to area meteorologists and put a plea out on Facebook to find the missing molar. When staff marched in the Founders' Days parade Sunday, they carried missing signs in place of Mickey.

Despite their efforts, no one has called to report any sightings, Stirneman said.

All Smiles is offering a $500 reward if the mascot is found. Anyone with information can call 847-854-7645.

- Katie Dahlstrom