Molars and Eruption Times

The molars are the permanent teeth situated in the back of the mouth. As the name suggests (‘molar’ comes from Latin ‘mola,’ which means ‘millstone’), they are used for chewing and grinding food.

We have a total of 12 molars, 6 on either jaw. They are the largest teeth in the mouth and are classified into first molars, second molars, and third molars (wisdom teeth).

The tables below show the molars and eruption times:

Upper Teeth	Age
First Molar	6 to 7 years
Second Molar	12 to 13 years
Third Molar	17 to 21 years

 

Lower Teeth	Age
First Molar	6 to 7 years
Second Molar	11 to 13 years
Third Molar	17 to 21 years

 

The eruption times of the permanent molars are often accompanied by swelling of the gum tissue and pain at the eruption site.  Many children have trouble-free molar eruptions though some can become a little irritable and have difficulty eating around the eruption time. Rarely, some children experience extreme pain. If your child is in too much pain, you may want to take him/her immediately to the dentist.

The third molars or the wisdom teeth are the last of the permanent teeth to appear. Since they appear late in life, there might not be enough space for them to develop properly. As a result, they may get ‘impacted’ or trapped beneath the gum tissue. Such teeth may cause severe pain as they press against the other teeth. They may also damage adjacent teeth and cause infection of the gums. Swelling and tenderness are also likely. This is why wisdom teeth are often removed.

The eruption of permanent molars can be a difficult time for both children and adults, and if adequate care is not taken, can lead to complications in the future. Remember, it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene and to see your dentist if you feel that things are getting a little too much for you.