Reviewed by Dr. Chau McGovern
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Reading Time: Three Minutes
Your toddler’s smile is growing right along with them—but when molars start to come in, that smile can quickly turn into a frown. Those big back teeth press through tender gums, making eating, sleeping, and even cuddling a little harder.
In this guide, we explain when molars come in, what symptoms to look for, and how to make your child more comfortable during this normal phase of development.
Table of Contents
When Do Toddler Molars Come In?
Most toddlers get their first molars between 13–19 months and their second molars (also called two-year molars) between 23–33 months.
These back teeth play an important role in chewing and speech development. As they erupt through the gums, your child may experience increased pressure and inflammation, especially if multiple molars come in close together.
Every child’s teething timeline is slightly different, so don’t worry if your toddler’s molars arrive earlier or later than average.
Common Molar Teething Symptoms
Molar eruption often causes more noticeable discomfort than earlier baby teeth because the molars are larger and have broader surfaces. Typical symptoms include:
- Sore or swollen gums: You may see redness or a small bulge at the back of the mouth.
- Increased drooling: Excess saliva helps cool and lubricate irritated gums.
- Chewing on objects: Biting relieves pressure caused by teeth pushing through.
- Irritability and fussiness: Pain and disrupted sleep can make toddlers crankier than usual.
- Loss of appetite: Sore gums can make chewing uncomfortable.
- Disrupted sleep: Teething pain often worsens at night when distractions are fewer.
- Mild fever or runny nose: Some toddlers experience slight inflammation-related symptoms.
- Placing objects in mouth: Your child may place their fingers, toys or other objects in their mouth while teething
💡 If your child’s fever exceeds 100.4°F, or symptoms seem severe, consult your pediatrician or dentist to rule out infection.
When Teething Symptoms Might Be Something Else
Teething can mimic symptoms of other health conditions. Contact your healthcare provider if your toddler shows any of these signs:
- High or persistent fever
- Ear pulling with crying or irritability (possible ear infection)
- Thick nasal discharge or coughing (may indicate a cold)
- White patches in the mouth (possible oral thrush)
- Facial swelling or pus near the gums (possible dental infection)
A quick checkup helps distinguish normal teething from issues that require medical attention.
Safe Ways to Soothe Molar Teething Pain
Try these dentist-approved remedies to make teething easier:
- Cold compress or chilled teething ring: The cold numbs gums and reduces swelling.
- Massage the gums: Gently rub the area with a clean finger or damp gauze pad.
- Chilled, firm snacks: For older toddlers, foods like chilled cucumber sticks or apple slices can massage gums while chewing.
- Pain relief medication: Use age-appropriate acetaminophen or ibuprofen only as directed by your healthcare provider.
- Extra comfort: Distraction, cuddling, and reassurance go a long way during tough teething days.
🚫 Avoid teething gels containing benzocaine (like Orajel) in children under 3. They can cause a rare but serious reaction called methemoglobinemia.
How to Keep Your Toddler’s New Teeth Healthy
Caring for molars as soon as they erupt prevents early decay and sets the stage for lifelong oral health:
- Brush twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss between teeth that touch.
- Offer water instead of sugary drinks.
- Schedule your toddler’s first dental visit by age one or within six months of their first tooth.
- Ask your dentist about fluoride treatments for cavity prevention.
Gentle Pediatric Dental Care in Southwest Ranches, FL
At Akoya Pediatric Dentistry, our team helps parents navigate each stage of their child’s dental development with comfort and confidence.
We provide comprehensive pediatric dental care, from routine checkups to emergency visits, all in a calm, kid-friendly environment.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Southwest Ranches, FL, call (954) 799-6212. Akoya Pediatric Dentistry proudly serves patients from Broward County, Pembroke Pines, Weston, and Davie, FL.
FAQs
What age do molars come in for toddlers?
Most toddlers get their first molars between 13–19 months and their second molars between 23–33 months.
How long does molar teething last?
Each molar can take several weeks to months to fully emerge. Discomfort usually peaks for 3–5 days as the tooth breaks through, and can persist if plaque/food are not cleansed from the gum tissue overlying the tooth.
How can I tell if my toddler’s fussiness is from teething or something else?
If the gums are swollen, drooling increases, and your child chews on objects, it’s likely teething. A high fever, cough, or ear pain could mean another issue, check with your doctor.
Is there a pediatric dentist near me?
Akoya Pediatric Dentistry is conveniently located in Southwest Ranches, FL. Our experienced pediatric dentists provide gentle, personalized care for infants, toddlers, and children throughout Broward County, including Pembroke Pines, Weston, and Davie.
