Molars are the large, flat teeth located at the back of the mouth. They are designed for grinding and chewing food efficiently and play a vital role in digestion and overall oral function.
An adult typically has 12 molars in total. These include:
On each side of the mouth, there are three molars:
However, not everyone has all 12 molars. Some people may have fewer if their wisdom teeth never develop, are removed, or fail to come through properly.
Molar teeth develop in stages throughout childhood and early adulthood.
The first permanent molars usually appear around the age of 6. These are often called “six-year molars” and come in behind the existing baby teeth, meaning no teeth fall out to make space for them.
The second molars typically erupt between the ages of 11 and 13. These are sometimes referred to as “twelve-year molars.”
The third molars (wisdom teeth) usually appear much later, generally between the ages of 17 and 25. In some cases, they may not come through at all or may remain impacted beneath the gum.
Because molars erupt over such a long period, they are exposed to wear and potential dental issues for many years, making regular dental care especially important.
Permanent molars are designed to last a lifetime and do not naturally fall out like baby teeth.
However, molars can be lost due to dental problems such as:
If a molar is badly damaged and cannot be restored with treatments such as fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy, extraction may be necessary.
Early treatment and good oral hygiene significantly reduce the risk of losing molars and help preserve them for as long as possible.
No, molar teeth do not grow back once they are lost.
Humans only develop two sets of teeth: primary (baby) teeth and permanent teeth. Molars that come through as part of the adult dentition are permanent and are not replaced if removed.
This is why preserving molars is so important. They play a key role in chewing and maintaining the structure of the bite. Losing a molar can affect how you eat and may cause neighbouring teeth to shift over time.
If a molar is lost, replacement options such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures may be recommended to restore function and prevent further complications.
The cost of molar extraction depends on the complexity of the procedure and the position of the tooth.
At Glow Dental, molar extraction fees are as follows:
Extractions (simple) from £195
Surgical extractions from £300
Wisdom teeth extractions from £350 – £650
A simple molar extraction may be possible if the tooth is fully visible and easy to access. However, molars are located at the back of the mouth and often have multiple roots, which can make removal more complex.
Surgical extraction may be required if the molar is broken, impacted, or difficult to remove. Wisdom teeth extractions vary the most in cost, as their position and development can differ significantly from one patient to another.
Before proceeding, your dentist will assess the tooth and explain the most appropriate treatment, including the expected fee.
Adults typically have 12 molars, including wisdom teeth, although not everyone retains all of them. These teeth develop gradually from childhood into early adulthood and are essential for effective chewing.
Unlike baby teeth, molars do not fall out naturally and cannot grow back once lost. This makes good oral care and regular dental check-ups essential to maintain their health and function.
If extraction is needed, the cost depends on how straightforward or complex the procedure is, with clear pricing helping patients understand what to expect.
87 Northcote Road
Battersea,
London,
SW11 6PL
Call us today on 0207 223 7096
