What does “Molar” mean?
Molars are the large back teeth. Their relatively broad chewing surfaces crush food into smaller pieces. Permanent molars are classified as first, second, and third molars.
Original spelling: 대구치(큰어금니)
Premolars and molars are different
The teeth behind the canines and in front of the molars are premolars, or premolars. The molars are located behind them and have a wide occlusal surface and multiple cusps. The rearmost third molars are called wisdom teeth, and their presence and eruption status may vary from person to person.
Permanent teeth can come in even if baby teeth do not fall out.
The first permanent molars erupt behind the baby molars rather than replacing a lost baby tooth. Check their location so they are not mistaken for baby teeth and their care delayed. As they erupt, make sure the chewing grooves and back surfaces can be cleaned.
Important points in molar treatment
We also check for cavities on the wide chewing surfaces, cracks around large restorations, and the state of care between teeth. Root and root canal structures also influence the treatment plan. Since these are teeth that receive chewing force, the bite after restoration and remaining tooth tissue are also taken into consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are molars the same as wisdom teeth?
Molars are the large back teeth, and wisdom teeth are the third molars. Not every molar is a wisdom tooth.
Is a new back tooth in my child a baby tooth?
Permanent molars can emerge behind baby teeth without removing them. It is important to check the age and location to determine whether it is a deciduous tooth or a permanent tooth.
Can a small cavity in a molar wait because it is out of sight?
The need for treatment depends on the lesion and its risk, rather than how visible the tooth is. Chewing function and ease of care are assessed when choosing observation, prevention, or restoration.
Molars: 3 things to check during treatment
Please review the questions to ask before deciding on treatment and the treatment standards of TU Dental Clinic.
- A choice suited to your condition
Is there a clear distinction between primary and permanent teeth and the eruption stage?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic determines the scope of treatment by checking the tooth structure and bite, gum condition, and existing treatment history.
TU’s natural tooth preservation treatment philosophy - Preservation of natural teeth
Does the clinic compare treatments suited to the extent of molar damage and the remaining tissue?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic examines the remaining tooth tissue and determines the scope of treatment by distinguishing between functionally necessary treatment and aesthetic adjustments.
TU’s natural tooth preservation treatment philosophy - Care after treatment
Does the clinic provide instructions on how to care for the chewing surfaces and between teeth?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic provides guidance on hygiene and regular check-ups after gum treatment. Ask about care suited to your teeth and gum condition.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together
Further reading and references
References
- Cleveland Clinic · Teeth anatomy, types and functionmy.clevelandclinic.org (opens in a new tab)
- ADA MouthHealthy · Eruption chartsmouthhealthy.org (opens in a new tab)
- NIDCR · Dental sealantsnidcr.nih.gov (opens in a new tab)
- Endodontics, Pulp Space Anatomy and Access Cavity of Anterior Teethncbi.nlm.nih.gov (opens in a new tab)
