Gum folding toothbrush
A toothbrush cannot fold healthy gum tissue; a flap or ridge may be inflamed gingiva, a gum pocket, or tissue over a partly erupted tooth.
What is the direct answer?
A toothbrush cannot fold healthy gum tissue; a flap or ridge may be inflamed gingiva, a gum pocket, or tissue over a partly erupted tooth.
What does this question mean?
A gum fold is a ridge or flap of gingival tissue against or over a tooth. Bristles can bend against it, but brushing does not normally create a fold.
What can you do next?
Plaque inflammation, a periodontal pocket, an operculum over a wisdom tooth, or brushing trauma can cause this appearance.
When should you seek dental care?
Use a soft brush gently and do not cut, pull or puncture the tissue. An examination can measure the pocket and assess tooth position.
What should you ask the dentist?
Seek prompt care for pain, pus, fever, facial swelling, difficulty swallowing or difficulty opening the mouth.
Frequently asked questions
Could another condition cause this?
A gum fold is a ridge or flap of gingival tissue against or over a tooth. Bristles can bend against it, but brushing does not normally create a fold.
What should the dentist check?
Ask whether this is normal gingiva, a gum pocket or an operculum, and whether imaging or treatment is needed.