Molar facts for kids

Molars are the largest and strongest teeth in your mouth. They are found at the very back of your jaws. Molars are super important because they help you chew and grind your food into small pieces. This makes it easier to swallow and digest what you eat.

Humans usually have 12 molars in total. You have three molars on each side of your upper jaw and three on each side of your lower jaw. These molars come in groups of three. The one farthest back in each group is often called a wisdom tooth.

What Are Molars?

Molars are different from your other teeth, like your front teeth (incisors) or the pointy ones (canines). Molars have a wide, flat surface with bumps and grooves. This special shape is perfect for crushing and grinding food. Think of them like little grinders in your mouth!

Molars are also the most complex type of teeth. They have multiple roots that anchor them firmly into your jawbone. This strong foundation helps them handle the heavy chewing forces.

Types of Molars

You get different sets of molars as you grow up:

• First Molars: These are usually the first permanent molars to appear. They often come in around age 6, behind your baby teeth. They are sometimes called "six-year molars."
• Second Molars: These appear later, typically around age 12. They are sometimes called "twelve-year molars."
• Third Molars (Wisdom Teeth): These are the last molars to grow in. They usually show up much later, often between the ages of 17 and 25. Sometimes, there isn't enough space for wisdom teeth, and they might need to be removed.

Why Molars Are Important

Molars play a big role in your overall health.

• Digestion: By grinding food thoroughly, molars help your body absorb nutrients better.
• Speech: Your teeth, including molars, help you form words correctly.
• Jaw Structure: Molars help maintain the shape of your jaw and face. They keep your other teeth in line.

Caring for Your Molars

Because molars have many grooves and are at the back of your mouth, they can be a bit harder to clean. Food particles and plaque can easily get stuck in their surfaces. This is why it's extra important to brush your molars carefully.

Here are some tips for keeping your molars healthy:

• Brush Regularly: Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Make sure to reach all the surfaces of your molars.
• Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove food and plaque from between your teeth and under the gum line, especially around molars.
• Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. They can spot any problems early and help you keep your molars strong.
• Sealants: Sometimes, dentists can apply a special protective coating called a sealant to the chewing surfaces of molars. This helps prevent cavities by smoothing out the grooves where food can get trapped.

Molars are amazing tools that help you eat and stay healthy. Taking good care of them means you'll have a strong smile for many years!