Deciduous molars, commonly known as primary or “baby” molars, are the initial set of grinding teeth located in the back of a child’s mouth. Distinct from incisors and canines, which are for biting and tearing, these molars support early oral development.
Eruption and Loss Timeline
Deciduous teeth begin forming during the embryonic stage, around five weeks of gestation, with all twenty present in the jaws at birth. The eruption of these teeth starts around six months and continues until approximately 25 to 33 months. The first molars emerge between 13 and 19 months, followed by the second molars, which are the last deciduous teeth to erupt, appearing between 23 and 33 months.
The shedding of deciduous molars, known as exfoliation, begins around age six and continues until about twelve years old, making way for permanent teeth. The first molars are shed between 9 and 11 years, while the second molars are lost between 10 and 12 years. It is important to remember that these are general timelines, and individual variations in eruption and shedding are common among children.
The Role of Deciduous Molars
Deciduous molars serve several functions beyond simply chewing food. They are adapted for mastication, the process of grinding food for swallowing. The presence of these teeth aids in developing appropriate chewing patterns and muscle coordination in the jaw.
Beyond their role in eating, deciduous molars contribute to clear speech development. Their proper alignment and presence influence how sounds are formed. These molars act as natural space holders, guiding the permanent teeth that will eventually replace them into their correct positions within the jaw. They help maintain the necessary arch length and contribute to the proper formation of jaw muscles and bones, ensuring adequate space for the larger permanent teeth to emerge.
Addressing Common Concerns and Care
Teething discomfort is a common concern for parents during the eruption of deciduous molars. Symptoms can include increased drooling, biting on objects, and tender or swollen gums. To alleviate discomfort, gently rubbing the gums with a clean finger or a cool, damp cloth can provide relief. Chilled teething rings or pacifiers can also soothe the gums, but sugary substances should be avoided.
Dental caries, or cavities, are prevalent in deciduous molars, making proper oral hygiene important. The enamel on primary teeth is thinner than on permanent teeth, increasing their susceptibility to decay. Parents should begin wiping a baby’s gums with a soft, clean cloth twice daily, even before teeth erupt. Once the first tooth appears, a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should be used twice a day with a grain-of-rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Premature loss of a deciduous molar, often due to extensive decay, can have implications for the alignment of permanent teeth. When a primary molar is lost too early, adjacent teeth may shift, reducing the space needed for the permanent successor. Regular dental check-ups are recommended, with the first visit scheduled around a child’s first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Dietary considerations, such as limiting sugary foods and drinks and avoiding putting children to bed with bottles of milk or juice, are also important preventive measures against decay.