Updated April 13, 2009.

Definition:

Adults are predisposed to have 12 molars. They are located furthest away from the front teeth, in the back of the mouth next to the cheek.
The first molar is named simply because it is the first of the three to erupt, around the age of six. The second molar follows around the age of 12 or 13 years of age. The third molar, more commonly known as a wisdom tooth, may erupt between the ages of 17 and 25 years.
Molars are the largest teeth in the mouth and are used grind food into easily swallowed pieces.

Anatomically, molars are designed to sustain great amounts of force from chewing, grinding, and clenching, by having a large crown and two to four roots firmly implanted in the jaw bone.

Also Known As:

First Molar or 1st Molar

Second Molar or 2nd Molar

Third Molar or 3rd Molar

Wisdom Teeth