Though it can come as a surprise to some parents, one of the first major changes in your child’s dental development is the arrival of their six-year molars. These are the first set of permanent molars and typically appear around age six, hence the name.
Unlike baby teeth, six-year molars come in behind the baby teeth without pushing any of them out and remain part of your child’s permanent set.
Just when you thought teething was over, right?!
Let us take you through what to expect and how to spot signs that your child’s six-year molars are erupting, along with how you can comfort them through the process.
Signs of Six-Year Molars
Not unlike the arrival of baby teeth, six-year molars can cause mild discomfort. Keep an eye out for symptoms, such as:
- Sore gums: The gums around the new molars may be tender or swollen.
- Irritability: The discomfort can make your child irritable, especially during meals.
- Chewing on objects: Your child might chew on toys or fingers to relieve pressure.
- Low-grade fever: A mild fever can accompany teething, though this usually isn’t serious.
How to Soothe Discomfort
Teething can be tough for kids and even worse for parents. To help ease any pain associated with the six-year molar stage, you might consider any or all of the following (especially the second one… that’s non-negotiable, if you ask us!)
- Cold foods: Offer chilled fruits or cold drinks to soothe sore gums.
- Good oral hygiene: Encourage brushing and flossing to keep the new molars clean.
- Pain relievers: For more significant discomfort or fever, an over-the-counter pain reliever, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used. (Please, always consult your pediatrician before giving medication).
The Importance of Six-Year Molars
Six-year molars are crucial for your child’s oral health as they form the foundation of the adult bite and aid in proper chewing and speech development. Keeping them healthy from the start is key to preventing future dental problems.
Caring for Six-Year Molars
Once these molars erupt, they need to be part of your child’s daily dental care routine:
- Brushing: Ensure your child brushes twice a day, paying special attention to their new molars.
- Flossing: Since molars have deep grooves, flossing helps remove food particles and prevent cavities.
- Dental visits: Regular checkups will help monitor the development of these molars and catch any issues early.
Watch for Potential Issues
Keep an eye out for common problems with six-year molars like cavities or crowding. Six-year molars can be prone to decay due to their grooves. If your child’s mouth lacks space for the new molars, crowding can occur, which may require orthodontic treatment.
The arrival of six-year molars is an important step in your child’s dental development. While the process may cause some discomfort, proper care and regular dental checkups will ensure these new teeth stay healthy and support your child’s growing smile. Is your child’s six-month cleaning on your calendar? If not, request an appointment here or call us at 603-228-4456 and we will schedule your next visit right away.
