Pediatric
Primary molars
Primary molars are the eight back baby teeth, used for chewing, that hold space for the adult premolars that replace them.
Children have four primary molars in the upper jaw and four in the lower jaw, two on each side. They are wider than the front teeth and have deep grooves, which can trap food and make them cavity-prone. A study in the NIH library says primary teeth play a vital role in eating, speech, appearance, and as space maintainers for permanent teeth. Because some primary molars stay in the mouth until age 11 or 12, they need care. Sealants and good brushing help protect them. If one is lost early, a space maintainer may be needed. A badly decayed one may get a stainless steel crown. See dental sealant and our page on dental sealants.