Regular testing and examination during these periods are important. The tests can be carried out either by your family physician or by a pediatrician. Some physicians like to see the baby once a month for the first two months, every two months for the next four months, and every three months for the next eighteen months. During these consultations, the physician weighs and measures the baby and checks that he or she is developing normally. Certain tests, such as hearing tests, are carried out at specific ages.
Parents are able to discuss any worries with the physician during the consultations.
The physician also follows a careful immunization schedule and inspects the baby's emerging teeth. During later childhood and adolescence, children should have their growth and development checked regularly. Semiannual visits to the dentist are imperative during these years, because orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct malocclusion.