If your toddler has suddenly gone off their dinner, is waking up at night again and keeps chewing on everything in sight, teething molars could be the reason. These back teeth tend to cause more fuss than the front teeth did, and it catches a lot of parents off guard. At Eglinton Dental Care we talk to local families about this stage all the time, so here is what usually happens, what you might notice, and what actually helps.
This guide covers teething molars symptoms, the rough ages they appear, how long the discomfort tends to last, and some simple things you can try at home. We will also explain when it is worth getting a dentist to take a look.
Teething molars: what age does it usually happen?
Molars are the big, flat teeth at the back of the mouth. They are used for grinding food, which is why they are wider and bulkier than the sharp little teeth at the front.
The lower incisor teeth are the first to erupt followed by the upper incisors and then the first deciduous molars. So by the time molars start to appear, your toddler has usually already been through teething once before with their front teeth.
Baby teeth start to come through the gums at about 6 months of age, and by the time your baby is 2 to 3 years old, all their teeth will usually have appeared. The first molars tend to come through somewhere in the second half of the first year to early in the second year, with the second (and final) baby molars following later as your toddler heads towards their third birthday. Every child's timing is a little different, and that is completely normal.
The time for each tooth to erupt differs from child to child, with one child's first tooth appearing at only a few months old, while another may not have a tooth erupt until 12 months or more. The same goes for molars. If your toddler's teeth seem to be taking their time, it is rarely anything to worry about.
Teething molars symptoms to watch for
Molars are bigger and flatter than front teeth, so they often take a bit longer to push through the gum. Because of this, parents sometimes notice symptoms building up over several days rather than appearing all at once.
Common signs include:
- Red, swollen or tender gums, especially right at the back of the mouth
- More drooling than usual
- Chewing or gnawing on toys, fingers or anything within reach
- Crankiness, clinginess or general fussiness
- Trouble settling to sleep or more night waking
- Going off food, particularly anything that needs a lot of chewing
It is worth knowing what teething does not usually cause. Teething is not usually associated with illness, and if your baby has symptoms such as coughing, rashes, diarrhoea, vomiting, seizures, or a high fever of 38°C or more, you should see your doctor, as your child may need treatment. So a mild grizzle and some drool is normal teething behaviour, but a genuinely sick-looking toddler needs a doctor, not just a teething ring.
How long does teething molars discomfort last?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and it is a fair one, because molar teething can feel like it drags on. The truth is that discomfort tends to come in short bursts rather than one long stretch.
Symptoms such as changes in sleep and eating patterns, fussiness, drooling and a runny nose are often linked to teething, and symptoms related to teething usually last around 48 hours. Because a molar can take a little while to fully break through the gum, you might see a day or two of grumpiness, then a quieter patch, then another flare-up as the tooth gets closer to the surface. This back-and-forth pattern is normal and does not mean anything is wrong.
How to help your baby with teething molars
There is no need for anything fancy here. Simple, gentle comfort measures work well for most toddlers.
Gum relief
Gently rubbing your child's gums with a clean finger can ease some of the pressure. A cool (not frozen) teething ring or a clean, damp face washer that has been chilled in the fridge can also help settle sore gums.
Cold food and drink
Cool water, chilled fruit or cold yoghurt can be soothing on tender gums, as long as your toddler is old enough for these foods. Avoid anything too sugary, since this can add to the risk of tooth decay on top of the teething discomfort.
Extra cuddles and distraction
A fussy toddler often just needs some extra attention. Distraction, cuddles and a familiar routine can go a long way on a hard day.
Pain relief if needed
If your toddler seems genuinely uncomfortable, a pharmacist can advise on pain relief suitable for their age, and you should always follow the directions on the pack. We are not able to recommend teething gels, so if you are considering one, check with your pharmacist or GP first.
Keeping those new molars clean
Once a molar breaks through, it needs looking after straight away, because the grooves on top can trap food and make these teeth more prone to decay. Brushing twice a day with a soft, small-headed toothbrush is the best habit to build early.
Regular check-ups also matter, even for very young children. Our children's dentistry appointments are a relaxed way for your toddler to get used to the dentist's chair, and give our team a chance to check how their teeth and gums are developing. We explain each step as we go, work at your child's pace, and never rush a nervous toddler.
If you are not sure whether a lump on the gum is a molar coming through or something else, it is always worth getting it checked. You can read more detail on the early stages of teething in our related article on when babies start teething, which covers the first teeth before the molars arrive.
When to bring your toddler in
Most molar teething settles down on its own with a bit of comfort and patience. That said, book a visit if you notice any of the following:
- A tooth that looks chipped, discoloured or oddly shaped as it comes through
- Ongoing refusal to eat or drink for more than a day or two
- Gum swelling that does not settle, or a lump that seems unusual
- You are simply unsure and want a second opinion
For genuine emergencies, such as spreading facial swelling, fever, trouble breathing or swallowing, or bleeding that will not stop, go straight to a hospital emergency department rather than waiting for a dental appointment.
For everything else, at Eglinton Dental Care we keep some appointments free each day for dental concerns that need prompt attention, so same-day care is often possible, although we cannot promise a same-day slot every time. You can check our current availability or choose a time online that suits your family.
Frequently asked questions
Do all toddlers get sore gums with molars?
No. Many toddlers have no signs of discomfort and don't complain of pain when their molars come in. Some children sail through this stage with barely a grumble, while others find it harder going. Both are completely normal.
Can teething molars cause a fever?
A mild rise in temperature is sometimes linked to teething, but a proper fever is not a typical teething symptom on its own. Teething is not usually associated with illness, and if your baby has symptoms such as coughing, rashes, diarrhoea, vomiting, seizures, or a high fever of 38°C or more, you should see your doctor.
What age do the last baby molars come through?
The second, and final, set of baby molars are usually the last baby teeth to arrive, typically appearing sometime before your child turns three. By then, most toddlers have their full set of baby teeth and teething is largely behind you.
Should I bring my health fund card to the appointment?
Yes, it is worth bringing it along. Most private health fund rebates can be claimed on the spot through HICAPS, and you simply pay the gap. If you have questions about what is covered, our FAQ page has more general information, or you can ask the item numbers to check with your fund.
When should my child first see a dentist?
It is a good idea to bring your child in once their first teeth appear, well before all the molars have come through. Early visits help your toddler get comfortable with the dentist and let us keep an eye on their developing teeth. You can read more about our approach to family care on our about page.
Teething molars can be a tiring stretch for the whole family, but it does pass. If you would like a second opinion on anything you are noticing, or it is time for your toddler's first check-up, the team at Eglinton Dental Care is happy to help. Give us a call on 08 9564 1007 or book an appointment online, and we will take things at your child's own pace.
