Which tooth eruption stage indicates a child is older than 6 years?

The eruption of the permanent mandibular first molars typically occurs around the age of 6, which is a significant milestone in dental development. This stage is often referred to as the "six-year molars" and marks the beginning of the transition from primary teeth to permanent dentition. The eruption of these first molars usually indicates that the child is older than 6 years, as this is the age when these permanent teeth are most commonly observed in the oral cavity.

In contrast, the total eruption of central incisors usually happens earlier, around the age of 6-8 years, but does not specifically indicate that a child is older than 6 since some may be fully erupted slightly before this age. The shedding of primary molars occurs as the child develops, but this process can vary widely among individuals. Lastly, if all primary teeth are still present, it suggests the child is younger than 6, as these teeth begin to shed around this age. Thus, observing the eruption of the permanent mandibular first molars is a clear indicator that the child is at least 6 years old or older.