About 12 Year Molars – What They Are, Location, and Name
The 12 year molars are some of the last of your child’s permanent teeth to erupt. They’re also called third molars. These teeth are located in the back of the mouth, behind the first and second molars (the latter are also known as 6 year molars.
Most children get their 12 year molars between ages 12 and 14. For some, they may erupt earlier or later. As the 12 year molars come in, your child may experience some discomfort. The process of eruption can last for 2-4 weeks, depending on whether there’s enough space in the child’s mouth.
Once these teeth are in place, the only other teeth that might erupt are the wisdom teeth. These teeth usually come in during the late teenage years or early adulthood. In some people, they don’t come in at all.
Complications That May Arise When 12 Year Molars Are Erupting
There are a few potential complications that can arise when 12 year molars are erupting. Here are some of the more common ones:
- Swelling and inflammation of the gums: As the 12 year molars push through the gums, they can cause inflammation and swelling. This can lead to pain and discomfort for your child.
- Crowding: If there’s not enough space in the mouth for the 12 year molars, they can cause crowding. This can lead to crooked teeth and difficulty cleaning the teeth properly.
- Impacted teeth: If 12 year molars don’t have enough space to erupt, they can become impacted. This means they get stuck and can’t come in properly. Impacted teeth can cause pain and other problems.
If you’re concerned about any of these complications, talk to your child’s dentist. They can help you manage the situation and make sure your child’s teeth are healthy. Sometimes, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to help with crowding or impacted teeth.
Will Your Child Need Orthodontic Treatment?
It’s not always necessary for children to get orthodontic treatment when their 12 year molars have erupted. However, in some cases, it may be recommended. If your child has crowding or impacted teeth, braces can help. If you’re not sure whether your child needs orthodontic treatment, talk to their dentist. They can assess the situation and give you their professional opinion.
How to Relieve 12 Year Molar Pain?
There are a few things you can do to help relieve 12 year molar pain. Here are some tips:
- Give your child over-the-counter pain medication: You can give your child over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. This can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Use a cold compress: You can also use a cold compress to help reduce inflammation. Place a ice pack or bag of frozen peas on the outside of your child’s cheek for 20 minutes at a time.
- Use a warm compress: If your child is having trouble sleeping, you can use a warm compress to help them relax. Place a warm, wet towel on their cheek for 20 minutes before bedtime.
- Give them soft foods: Soft foods, such as applesauce or ice cream, won’t irritate the gums. Just make sure the food isn’t too hot, as this can cause more pain.
While the discomfort can last longer than you may like, it’s important to remember that it’s usually only temporary. With some home remedies and over-the-counter medication, your child should be feeling better in no time. If the pain is unmanageable or you’re concerned about any complications, talk to your child’s dentist.
Now you know a little more about 12 year molars. If your child is experiencing any discomfort, talk to their dentist. They can help you manage the situation and make sure your child’s teeth are healthy.
What other questions do you have about 12 year molars? Let us know in the comments below!
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