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What age do molars come in? First molars at 6–7 yrs. Central incisors: 6–8 yrs, lateral incisors: 7–8 yrs, and canines come in 9–13 yrs.
As a child’s body grows, one of the chief last major changes of their mouth is when the molars pop up. These large-bulbous teeth are of importance to chewing but may also help maintain a proper distance for the eventual permanent teeth. However, at what age do molars set in, and what should parents expect at each level?
Let us take a step back and look at the various stoppages in the timelines concerning the molar development-from the very first baby molar to the very last set of wisdom teeth-and provide tips on how healthy your child’s smile can be every step of the way.
The molar is the large and flat tooth located in the rear of the mouth for grinding food. Generally, there are three molars for each side of both upper and lower jaws for a total of 12 molars, including wisdom teeth. These include:
- The first molar
- The second molar
- The third molar (wisdom teeth)
Children possess two molar sets in their baby teeth and three sets in their permanent dentition.
When Do Molars Come In?
The first molars will have their eruption between months 13 and 33 of age. They will help the child when solid food needs to be chewed and act as space maintainers while the permanent teeth develop.
| Tooth Type | Upper Jaw (Approx. Age) | Lower Jaw (Approx. Age) |
|---|---|---|
| First Molars | 13–19 months | 14–18 months |
| Second Molars | 25–33 months | 23–31 months |
It is typical for every child to differ a little in variation during this teething period. The baby molars are generally shed around ages 9 to 12 on average, making space for their adult equivalents.
When Do Permanent Molars Come In?
Permanent molars erupt in a specific order as shown below:
1. First Permanent Molas (6-Year Molas):
- Age – 6-7 Years
- These teeth are usually the first constituents in the adult dentition. They emerge at the back of the last baby molars in the mouth.
- Essential in establishing the appropriate bite pattern.
2. Second Permanent Molars (12-Year Molas):
- Age – 11 – 13 Years
Erupt behind the first permanent molars.
- Often coincide with the advent of puberty.
3. The third molars (wisdom teeth):
- Age – 17 – 25 Years
May not erupt for everyone — many people need them removed due to crowding or impaction.
Signs Your Child's Molars Are Coming In
While the process is one everyone goes through, it usually causes some discomfort. Here are some common signs:
- Swollen and tender gums
- Slight annoyance or fussiness
- Drooling too much
- Chewing on fingers/toys
- Difficulty sleeping or eating
Molars are also bigger, harder, and grow in a position that is more internal than front teeth; thus, they usually give off more discomfort. You may try soothing the process with teething toys, cold washcloths, or topical over-the-counter teething gels (after consulting your pediatric dentist before using).
How to Care for Molars at Every Stage
Here is proper care from infancy into adulthood for good molars:
Infant and Toddler
- Clean the gums with a soft cloth well before the teeth come into position.
- Brush baby teeth twice a day with soft toothbrush and rice grain size smear of fluoride toothpaste.
- Set the first dental visit at age 1
From Childhood up to Pre-Teen Stage
- Monitor brushing until the age of 7.
- Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once the molars touch together (usually Age 3 to 4).
Avoid forgetting regular dental check-ups every 6 months.
Teenagers and Adults.
- Continue your normal oral hygiene along with flossing.
- Consult with your dentist if you have wisdom teeth development.
- Consider sealants for recently erupted molars to prevent cavities.
Molar Eruption Timeline Summary
| Tooth | Typical Age Range |
|---|---|
| Baby First Molars | 13–19 months |
| Baby Second Molars | 23–33 months |
| First Permanent Molars | 6–7 years |
| Second Permanent Molars | 11–13 years |
| Third Molars (Wisdom Teeth) | 17–25 years |
When to See a Dentist
If the primary molars are not coming in on schedule or if the child has pain and swelling, or complaints of fever, it is best to consult a pediatric dentist. The delay may be linked with genetic factors, premature loss of baby teeth, or a dental problem that may be present.
Final Thoughts
Until they reach adulthood, molars develop at different stages in life and are truly important for chewing, speech and maintaining the proper alignment of the dental arches. Understanding the how’s and when’s of molar eruption helps parents to brace themselves for each stage and to take care of their child’s smile in the best way possible.
Whether you are concerned about your child’s teeth development or need professional help in safely cruising through teething or molars eruption, Bliss Grins Pediatric Dentistry in San Carlos has got you. Our caring team makes dental visits easy, educational, and fun for kids of all ages.
Enter blissgrins.com to schedule an appointment right now and let us support the growth of your child’s smile!
