If you have a little one aged around 6 to 7, complaining suddenly about toothache around the jawline, do not get into panic mode. It is most probably due to the eruption of first permanent teeth and that’s why it is called 6-Year Molars. 

Molars or molar teeth are flat, big teeth that erupt at the back of the mouth which grind food during chewing. Derived from the Latin word Molar dens, Molars are also known as ‘millstone tooth’ or ‘millstone and dens’ tooth. Also Read: Toothache: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

There are a total of 12 molars of which 6 are found in the upper jaw and 6 in the lower jaw. Out of 12 molars, 8 main molars get divided and flare up at 6 and 12 years of age. The primary job of molars is to grind the food, making it into small pieces and facilitate easy swallow.

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All About 6-Years Molars:

6 Year molars are the first set of permanent teeth whereas the second set comes in at the age of 12. 

The third and last set of molars also popularly known as wisdom teeth, may appear in the 20s. 

Do All Children Get The First Set of Molars At 6?

Well, the dental progress of each child differs. While few may get it soon after completing 6 years, others may have it the age of 7. Genetic factors play a major role in the emergence of these teeth. It is important to pay attention to these permanent teeth from the very beginning as it defines the facial features of your child as it aligns both upper and lower jaws and aids in preserving the arch shape of the teeth. 

Can 6-Year Molars Cause Discomfort?

Since these teeth are at the backside of the mouth, they cause some amount of pain, discomfort during this phase. It is not uncommon for the children to complain about headaches, ear pain, jaw pain and cheek biting. Other common symptoms include

  • Irritability
  • Severe jaw pain
  • Swelling in the area
  • Low-grade fever
  • Inability to chew on hard foods
  • Insomnia or disturbed sleep
  • Infection

How To Ease The Pain Caused Due To 6-Year Molars?

There is nothing to worry and these symptoms may last up to 2 to 4 days. Try home remedies for instant relief.

Salt and Coconut Oil Rub:

Mix salt with virgin coconut oil and apply it on the affected area. This is an age-old therapy that causes pain relief in a jiffy. 

Saltwater Rinse:

Mix salt in warm water and make your child rinse the mouth at least twice a day. This will reduce inflammation and other associated problems. 

Clove Oil:

Clove oil too provides immediate relief. However, be careful while applying on the affected area as it may cause blisters on the tongue, owing to its pungent taste and concentration. Also Read: 5 Surprising Ways Clove Oil Based Products Heal Your Body

In case, if the pain persists ask your doctor for pain killers. 

Should We See A Dentist?

In many cases, 6-year molars emerge with little or no discomfort. Some amount of low-grade fever is common, however, if your child is running high on the temperature it is an indication of infection. Take your child to the doctor immediately to see if there is an infection. 

The usual treatment protocol includes the application of gels, pain killers and antibiotics to heal this dental problem.