When Do Kids Get Molars? A Parent’s Guide to Cautious Teething Milestones
Introduction: The Mystery of Molars
Teething is one of the biggest challenges in early childhood — for both kids and parents. While the first teeth to erupt are usually the tiny incisors in the front, many parents find themselves asking: When do kids get their molars?
Molars are the large, flat teeth at the back of the mouth. They’re essential for chewing and grinding food, and unlike the small front teeth, molars can be more painful when they come in because of their size and the amount of gum tissue they push through.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about molar eruption: when they appear, what symptoms to expect, how to soothe your child’s discomfort, and the difference between baby molars and permanent molars.
When Do Kids Get Molars? (Teething Timeline)
Children typically develop two sets of molars in their baby teeth before permanent molars come in later:
1. First Molars (Toddler Molars)
-
Age Range: 13–19 months (upper molars), 14–18 months (lower molars).
-
These usually appear after the canine (eye) teeth.
-
Function: They help toddlers chew a wider variety of solid foods, from pasta to soft meats.
2. Second Molars (Preschool Molars)
-
Age Range: 23–33 months (upper molars), 25–33 months (lower molars).
-
These are typically the last of the baby teeth to erupt.
-
By age 3, most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth, including 8 molars (4 on top, 4 on bottom).
💡 Quick Tip: Delays of a few months are usually normal. Teething timelines vary widely among children.
Signs Your Child Is Getting Molars
Because molars are larger and push through more gum tissue, their eruption can cause noticeable discomfort. Common signs include:
-
Irritability and fussiness — your toddler may seem crankier than usual.
-
Increased drooling — more saliva is produced as teeth break through.
-
Swollen, red gums where the molars are about to emerge.
-
Chewing on objects or fingers to relieve pressure.
-
Sleep disturbances — molar teething often interrupts naps and nighttime rest.
-
Decreased appetite or preference for soft foods.
💡 Parent Note: Some children may also develop a mild fever or looser stools during teething, though these symptoms should be monitored closely. If your child has a high fever or persistent diarrhea, consult your pediatrician — these may not be related to teething.
How to Soothe Molar Teething Pain
Molars can be especially uncomfortable, but there are several safe ways to provide relief:
1. Teething Toys & Chews
Give your child a rubber or silicone teething ring. Biting down provides counter-pressure that soothes sore gums.
2. Cold Compresses
Chill a clean washcloth in the refrigerator and let your child chew on it. Cold teething toys also help numb gum pain.
3. Gum Massage
Wash your hands and gently rub your child’s gums with a clean finger. The pressure can provide instant relief.
4. Safe Pain Relief
If discomfort is severe, consult your pediatrician about giving infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Always follow medical guidance.
5. Soft, Soothing Foods
Offer yogurt, applesauce, oatmeal, or mashed bananas. These are gentle on sensitive gums while still providing nutrition.
Baby Molars vs. Permanent Molars
It’s important to distinguish between baby molars and the permanent molars that come later in childhood:
-
Baby Molars (Primary Teeth):
-
First molars appear around 13–19 months.
-
Second molars erupt around 23–33 months.
-
By age 3, most kids have 8 baby molars.
-
-
Permanent Molars:
-
First permanent molars (“6-year molars”): Erupt around age 6.
-
Second permanent molars (“12-year molars”): Appear around age 12.
-
Wisdom teeth (third molars): Come in much later, usually between ages 17–25.
-
💡 Takeaway: Baby molars pave the way for chewing skills, while permanent molars set the foundation for lifelong dental health.
FAQs About Kids’ Molars
1. When do kids usually get their first molars?
Most children get their upper first molars between 13–19 months and their lower first molars between 14–18 months.
2. When do second molars come in?
Between 23–33 months, often completing the set of 20 baby teeth by age 3.
3. Do molars hurt more than other teeth?
Yes, molars can be more painful because they are larger and require more gum tissue to break through.
4. How many molars do kids have?
Children have 8 primary molars (4 upper, 4 lower) as part of their 20 baby teeth.
5. What if my toddler’s molars are late?
Some variation is normal. If your child has no molars by age 3, consult your pediatric dentist.
Tips for Healthy Molar Development
-
Brush Daily: Start brushing your toddler’s teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste.
-
First Dental Visit: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a first dental checkup by age 1.
-
Healthy Snacks: Limit sugary foods and drinks to prevent cavities, which often start in molars.
-
Fluoride Protection: Ask your pediatrician or dentist about fluoride supplements if your water supply doesn’t have fluoride.
-
Model Good Habits: Brush your teeth alongside your child — kids love to imitate.
Common Concerns for Parents
-
Swollen gums but no teeth: Sometimes the gums swell for weeks before the molars break through. Patience is key.
-
Night waking: Pain may cause your toddler to wake at night. Offer comfort and soothing strategies instead of starting new sleep habits.
-
Chewing on everything: This is normal! Provide safe teething toys instead of household items.
-
Drooling rashes: Extra drool can cause irritation around the mouth and chin. Keep skin dry and apply a gentle barrier cream if needed.
Conclusion: Making Molar Teething Easier
Molars are an essential part of your child’s dental development, helping them transition to a full diet of solid foods and paving the way for permanent teeth. While the process can be uncomfortable, knowing when kids get molars, what symptoms to expect, and how to soothe pain can make the experience easier for both you and your child.
By age 3, most children will proudly show off a complete set of 20 baby teeth, including 8 hard-earned molars. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene, offer soothing relief when needed, and schedule regular dental check-ups to keep those new teeth strong and healthy.
Teething may be tough, but it’s also a sign of growth — and soon those molars will be helping your little one enjoy everything from crunchy apples to their favorite birthday cake.