Two-Year-Old’s Molars: Signs, Symptoms, Pain Relief And Care

Babies get primary teeth or milk teeth first, followed by permanent teeth that appear later in childhood. Several types of teeth exist, with the upper and lower molars responsible for grinding solid food due to their broad top surface (1). The essential function of molars may make parents wonder when do babies get molars.

A healthy set of molars may make it easier for the baby to chew solids, ensuring they can eat various food items for nourishment (2). Read this post to know when do babies get molars and how to take care of them to ensure good oral health.

When Do Babies Get Molars?

Children have two pairs of first molars and second molars, one pair each on the lower and upper jaws. Their temporary first molars usually appear between 16 and 20 months and the second molars between 24 and 30 months (3). The sequence of teething may vary among children. Hence, if your baby does not get their molars within the stipulated time, it is not a reason for worry, although a visit to a pediatric dentist is recommended.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Molar Eruption In Babies?

When your baby’s first set of molars start to come in, you may notice some signs and symptoms such as the following (4) (5):

• Crankiness and short temper because the teething process may hurt
• Drooling due to extra saliva production (not seen in all children)
• Low-grade fever with temperatures ranging from 98 to 100°F
• Chewing on fingers or clothing, which encourages them to use their tongue and makes them aware of it
• Disrupted sleep due to pain. Less sleep also heightens their sensitivity toward pain.
• Pain and redness in the gums around the area of teeth eruption
• Low appetite due to constant irritation.

Remember, your child may experience one or more or may have no symptoms at all.

What Are The Remedies For Pain From Molar Eruption In Babies?

Some remedies to help reduce their teething pain are as follows (4):

• Rub/massage their gums with a clean finger or a soft, moist piece of cloth
• Place a cold spoon on their gums
• Cold refrigerated uncut vegetables like carrot, radish or cucumber
• Use rubber teething rings without a gel Ensure you are present while they use it so that they do not choke.
• With the advice of your pediatric dentist- anesthetic gels like Pansoral or Zytee.

How To Care For Your Two-Year-Old’s Molars?

After your baby’s molars have emerged, maintain the following oral habits to ensure healthy teeth and gums and avoid infection or plaque (5) (6):

• Clean/wipe their mouth with tooth tissue wipes or clean cloth after each feeding to avoid bacteria build-up, which may cause early signs of tooth decay or loss.
• Use a soft to medium age appropriate electric or manual toothbrush to brush their teeth on all sides in a circular motion with gentle strokes.
• Use a rice grain/smear sized amount of 1000ppm of fluoride toothpaste for children below the age of 3 years, as fluoride significantly decreases the risk of caries (7).
• Regular visit to your pediatric dentist for their supervision and guidance.

What Should You Avoid When Your Baby Is Teething?

Avoid the following things when your baby is teething (4) (5):

• Sugary foods such as packaged fruit juices and chocolates
• Snacks or solid foods that might stick to their teeth
• Frequent night feedings after the appearance of their first tooth
• Use of no or low fluoride toothpaste
• Not maintaining oral hygiene at all
• Not visiting a pediatric dentist for regular check ups

When Should You See A Doctor?

A mild fever while teething is fairly normal. However, the following conditions may indicate an underlying health problem in your baby (5):

• Diarrhea
• Rashes
• Fever higher than 100°F

If you notice any of the above symptoms in your baby, contact your pediatrician and pediatric dentist.

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