Final answer:
An infant not having any teeth by the age of 12 months is considered a deviation from expected dental development since deciduous teeth usually appear starting at six months of age. This may require further evaluation by a healthcare professional.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing the growth and development of a 12-month-old infant during a well-child visit, encountering an infant with no teeth can be considered a deviation from expected development. Typically, deciduous teeth, also known as baby teeth, begin to emerge around six months of age. By the end of the first year, an infant usually has several teeth, often including the upper and lower incisors. If a 12-month-old infant does not have any teeth, it may be an indication of delayed dental development or an underlying health issue that requires further evaluation.
During the infancy period, there is expected to be significant growth in body size and development of motor skills, such as sitting, crawling, and possibly beginning to walk. Additionally, an infant's sensory abilities, such as hearing and touch, are well-developed, and they display important reflexes like suckling and rooting that aid in feeding. It is important for nurses and caregivers to monitor these developmental milestones and growth patterns to ensure the child's health and well-being.