This article contains everything you as a parent need to know about 6 year molars.
Turning six years old is a huge developmental milestone for children. This is when they begin to learn much more quickly and can do more things on their own. Because of this, they feel they want more independence from family. However, they are still in their formative years, which means they need their parents more than ever as they learn more about the world and themselves. Part of this milestone is the eruption of permanent teeth, better known as the 6 years molars.
What you need to know about 6 year molars
Time indeed goes so fast when you have kids. One minute they cry for the silliest of reasons, and the next thing you know they are tying their own shoes and getting ready for school. Your once high-energy toddler is now six years old and ready for first grade. For many children, six years is also a milestone for dental development as this is the stage where they will experience the emergence of their first permanent molars. 6-year molars got their name because it is usually the stage where these teeth erupt. However, it may erupt as early as 5 years or as late as 8 years in some children.
Tooth eruption is the clinical term for tooth/teeth coming out of the surface of the gums. A child’s baby teeth (also known as primary teeth) usually start to loosen and fall out at about age 5 to 6. This is to make space for their adult teeth or permanent teeth. Moreover, this pair of child’s molars also determines the shape of your child’s face.
While the eruption of their first permanent molars may sound exciting for parents, losing baby teeth or primary tooth however, can cause unsettling pain and discomfort for children.
Tell-tale signs of 6 year molars
When these molars are closing to emerge, your child may experience discomfort or pain in the gums for a week. As the new set of teeth erupts, your child may experience symptoms like:
• Tender and inflamed gum line
• Swelling in the molar areas
• Jaw pain
• Headaches
• Itching ears/excessive rubbing of ears
• Difficulty chewing food
• Low-grade fever
• Irritability
• Facial rash
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Sleep disturbances
Everyone experiences tooth eruption differently, and pain and discomfort don’t always occur in everyone. Some children may not experience any of these symptoms at all. However, those who experience these symptoms may also develop an infection as their teeth begin to erupt. If your child experience discomfort for more than a week, or if you can see pus in the molar area, especially with persistent fever, then it will be best to schedule a doctor’s appointment as soon as possible. You can also visit your child’s pediatric dentistry clinic to better monitor potential tooth problems.
Managing pain and gum discomfort in 6 year molars
While you cannot stop your child’s first permanent molars from emerging, there are ways to manage the pain and discomfort that comes with tooth eruption. Here are some effective tips for temporary pain relief:
• Dietary adjustments – Avoid giving your child tough or solid foods until the tooth has fully emerged. Opt for mashed or soft vegetables, soups, and healthy tune or chicken salads.
• Soft and cold foods – The cold from soft and cold food like apple sauce, ice cream, yogurt, mushy peas, or even milk shakes (eat with a spoon) can temporarily reduce pain. You can also opt for healthier alternatives like popsicles made with fruits can also make tasty and healthy quick pain relief solution.
• Swishing – One of the best home remedies is warm salt water rinses. This eases inflammation and reduces the risk of infections.
• Teething gel – Over-the-counter teething gel can provide quick and effective pain relief by numbing the affected area.
• Gum massage – Gum massage may temporarily reduce pain. Wet a clean cloth or gauze and gently rub your child’s swollen gums. You can also teach your child to do it themselves.
• Children’s ibuprofen – Over-the-counter pain medication can relieve gum swelling and reduce fever. Of course, make sure you consult your child’s doctor whenever you administer any kind of medication to your child.
Frequently Answered Questions
Q. Do 6 year olds get molars?
A. Yes, a child’s first pair of permanent teeth (adult teeth) appears at around 6 or 7, hence the phrase “6 year molars”.
Q. What happens when 6 year molars come in?
A. Your child gum and face may start to swell. Many will also experience swelling and irritation in the gums due to tooth eruption, along with other symptoms mentioned above.
Q. How do you know if 6 year molars are coming in?
A. Your child may experience teething symptoms like swollen gums, mild fever, diarrhea, etc.
Q. Can 6 year molars come in at 5?
A. Yes, 6 year molars can erupt at as early as 5 or even as late as 8 for some children.
When to see a dentist or pediatrician?
Proper dental hygiene habits like brushing teeth (using fluoride toothpaste) after meal, flossing, etc., are crucial during this stage of your child’s teeth development, as well as routine dental checkups. The latter will help both you and your child learn more about dental care and healthy eating habits and oral health practices and avoid complications like tooth decay in the future.