As parents, we all want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their health and well-being. Ensuring that your child receives the right care at the right time can set the foundation for a lifetime of good health. We’ve gathered valuable information to help guide you through the key milestones in your child’s health journey—from their first dental checkups to the ideal time to visit an eye doctor or get braces.
You’ll also find expert advice from trusted pediatric dentistry and pediatric therapy providers who share the same dedication to giving your child the best care possible.
Whether you’re navigating those important first checkups or preparing for upcoming milestones, making sure your child’s health is in great hands every step of the way.
Your Child’s Health Timeline
Keeping up with your child’s health appointments is key to ensuring they grow strong, stay healthy, and reach important milestones. From their first doctor’s visit to braces and eye exams, here’s a complete guide to when your child should see a pediatrician, dentist, and eye doctor.
Infancy (0-12 Months): The Foundation for Lifelong Health
Doctor Visits
One week old:
First newborn checkup.
2, 4, 6, 9 and 12 months:
Well-child visits to monitor growth, development and vaccinations.
Dental Care
First dental visit:
“Kids should go see the dentist by their 1st birthday to check if teeth are erupting and developing properly, check for cavities, receive education on proper oral hygiene, feeding practices and talk about any thumb, finger sucking or pacifier use,” said pediatric dentist Dr. Michael McIlwain of Tampa Bay Smile Makers. “Early visits also help little ones feel comfortable at dental visits.”
Eye Exams
Newborn vision screenings are done at birth to check for major issues.
First full eye exam:
At 6 months, especially if there are concerns about focus or tracking.
Toddlerhood (1-3 Years): Developing Healthy Habits
Doctor Visits
15, 18, and 24 months:
Well-child checkups to track speech, movement and growth.
Annual checkups start at age 2.
Dental Care
All 20 baby teeth should erupt by age 3.
Preschool & Early School Years (4-8 Years): Big Changes & New Milestones
Dental Care
“The kids should see an orthodontist at age 7 so we can evaluate the development of the teeth and jaws,” Dr. Mary Awadallah, an orthodontist with Tampa Bay Smile Makers said. “We like to track growth to see if there’s anything to address early. If there are no needs, we are good and continue to monitor.”
Eye Exams
First full eye exam with an optometrist is recommended by age 4.
Middle Childhood (9-12 Years): A Focus on Growth & Prevention
Doctor Visits
Checkups every 1-2 years unless concerns arise.
Dental Care
Most baby teeth fall out during this stage, making room for permanent teeth.
Eye Exams
Vision can change rapidly during growth spurts, so eye exams every 1-2 years are recommended.
Adolescence (13-18 Years): Independence & Long-Term Health
Doctor Visits
Checkups every 1-2 years focusing on overall health, mental well-being and lifestyle habits.
Dental Care
Wisdom teeth begin developing; X-rays help determine if they need removal. Braces or retainers may be necessary to straighten teeth.
Eye Exams
Vision screenings should continue every 1-2 years.
By staying on top of these key health milestones, you’re giving your child the best foundation for a healthy, happy future!
Meet the Doctors
McIlwain Dental Specialists
At McIlwain Dental Specialists, patients receive expert, compassionate care at every stage of life. With offices in South Tampa and Wesley Chapel, the practice is home to some of the best pediatric dentists in the area, including Dr. Mike McIlwain, Dr. Leigh-Ann McIlwain and Dr. Jim McIlwain, who bring over 40 years of combined experience. Their open-concept pediatric bay allows families to be actively involved in their child’s dental care, fostering a welcoming and reassuring environment. In addition to pediatric dentistry, McIlwain Dental Specialists provides comprehensive general dentistry and orthodontic care.
They emphasize preventive treatment and early intervention, ensuring long-term oral health. For patients with dental anxiety, sedation options—including oral, inhalation and IV sedation—make visits stress-free. Dedicated to excellence, McIlwain Dental Specialists is committed to keeping smiles healthy, comfortable and confident for a lifetime.
302 N. Howard Ave., Tampa, (813) 879-8097
26908 Foggy Creek Road, Suite 101, Wesley Chapel, (813) 991-9893
Samantha Elder, M.S., CCC-SLP Owner of The Little Years Therapy Co.
Speech, Language & Feeding Therapy
After working at All Children’s Hospital, Samantha Elder founded The Little Years Therapy Co. in 2022 to balance her career and motherhood. Specializing in speech, language and feeding development, the business offers mobile therapy services for children in their natural environment to prioritize functional outcomes.
“Our approach is child-led and play-based with a focus on parent coaching. I believe every child’s journey is unique, and therapy should meet them where they are,” says Elder.
4320 W. El Prado Blvd., Suite 20, Tampa, (813) 444-362.2
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