When to See a Pediatric Dentist and Orthodontist

Understanding Child Tooth Development: A Parent’s Guide in Ponte Vedra

At Ponte Vedra Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we strive to be your trusted partner in your child’s oral health from infancy through the teenage years. Led by Dr. Lindsay Maples and our experienced pediatric and orthodontic team, we provide comprehensive dental care for children of all ages in Ponte Vedra and Nocatee.

As children grow, their teeth and jaws go through important developmental stages. Knowing what’s normal—and when to see a pediatric dentist—helps ensure healthy smiles, proper function, and confident development at every age.

Stages of Child Tooth Development

Children reach different dental milestones as they grow. Below is a breakdown of what parents can expect and how pediatric dental care supports each stage.

Infancy (0–12 Months)

During the first year of life, your baby’s mouth begins major changes. Teething typically starts between 4 and 7 months, although anywhere from 3 months to 1 year can be normal. The lower front teeth (incisors) usually erupt first, followed by the upper incisors.

Before teeth appear, gently wiping your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth helps reduce bacteria. Once teeth erupt, use a soft baby toothbrush and a small smear of toothpaste to clean them gently.

By 12 months, most babies have 4–8 teeth, and the first dental visit should be scheduled within six months of the first tooth or by age one, whichever comes first.

Toddlerhood (Ages 1–3)

By age three, most children have a full set of 20 primary (baby) teeth. This is an important time to establish daily oral hygiene habits.

• Brush twice daily

• Begin flossing as teeth touch

• Avoid milk or juice at bedtime—offer water instead

Regular dental checkups every six months with a Ponte Vedra pediatric dentist help prevent cavities and reinforce positive dental experiences early.

Preschool Years (Ages 3–5)

Between ages three and five, children develop stronger speech and fine motor skills. They should begin brushing their own teeth, with parental supervision to ensure proper technique. Limiting sugary snacks is especially important at this stage, as they are a leading cause of childhood cavities. Parents should also monitor thumb-sucking and pacifier use. If these habits continue beyond age four, they may affect tooth alignment and jaw development and should be discussed with a pediatric dentist.

Early School Years (Ages 4–6)

This stage marks the beginning of the transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth. Children often start losing baby teeth while permanent teeth erupt. Parents should:

• Encourage responsibility with brushing and flossing

• Limit sugary foods and drinks

• Ask about dental sealants to protect cavity-prone teeth

Regular pediatric dental visits ensure this transition happens smoothly.

Middle School Years (Ages 9–12)

By this age, most children have many of their permanent teeth. Around age 7, children should also receive their first orthodontic evaluation to check for alignment, crowding, or bite issues. Our team—including Dr. Lindsay Maples and our orthodontic specialists—can determine whether early orthodontic intervention or braces may be beneficial. Children involved in sports should also consider a custom mouthguard to protect their teeth.

Adolescence (Ages 13–18)

As children move into adolescence, their oral care needs become more advanced. Wisdom teeth begin developing during the teenage years, though removal is not always necessary. Your dentist will monitor their development and recommend treatment if needed.

Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or aligners, may continue or begin during this stage. Consistent brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits remain essential for maintaining long-term oral health and preventing future problems.

Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Ponte Vedra and Nocatee

At Ponte Vedra Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we provide complete pediatric dental and orthodontic care under one roof—supporting your child’s smile from their first tooth through adulthood.

If you’re looking for a trusted Ponte Vedra pediatric dentist, our team is here to guide your family through every stage of dental development.

Contact our Nocatee office today to schedule an appointment and learn how we can support your child’s healthy, confident smile for years to come.