molaire

A molaire, or molar tooth, is a type of tooth located at the back of the jaw. Molars are the broad, grinding teeth that play a key role in breaking down food for digestion. They are larger and have a wider occlusal surface than other teeth, with multiple cusps arranged to crush and grind.

Anatomy and position: In humans, each quadrant of the permanent dentition typically contains three molars: first, second, and third (the latter commonly called the wisdom tooth). Upper (maxillary) molars usually have three roots, while lower (mandibular) molars typically have two. The occlusal surfaces are designed for grinding, with complex cusp patterns that vary among the different molars and individuals.

Development and eruption: The first permanent molars erupt around ages 6 to 7, followed by the second molars around ages 12 to 13. Third molars, or wisdom teeth, may erupt much later, sometimes not at all, or may be removed due to crowding or impaction.

Variation and health: Molars are prone to dental caries in the pits and fissures of their occlusal surfaces and can suffer from wear, periodontal issues, or decay. Third molars are frequently extracted because of misalignment, lack of space, or impaction. In the primary (deciduous) dentition, children also have deciduous molars that are eventually replaced by permanent premolars.

Etymology: The term molar derives from Latin mola, “millstone,” reflecting their grinding function. In French, molaire is the analogous term for the same tooth type.