An interdental cleft is a linear invagination (or dip) in the interproximal gingival tissue (gum tissue between teeth), characterized by distinct mesial (towards the front of the mouth) and distal (towards the back of the mouth) peaks, with a depth of at least 1 millimeter. In simpler terms, it's a noticeable indentation or "valley" in the gum tissue between teeth.
Characteristics of an Interdental Cleft:
- Linear Invagination: The cleft appears as a line or groove extending into the gum tissue.
- Interproximal Location: It's specifically located in the interproximal space, meaning between adjacent teeth.
- Mesial and Distal Peaks: The tissue on either side of the cleft forms distinct points or peaks, one towards the front of the mouth and one towards the back.
- Depth: A key characteristic is the depth of the cleft, which must be at least 1 mm to be considered a true interdental cleft, as measured using a periodontal probe. The probe helps determine how far the invagination extends into the gum tissue.
Significance
The presence of an interdental cleft can be significant because it may:
- Indicate underlying periodontal issues: Clefts can be associated with inflammation, bone loss, or other problems affecting the supporting structures of the teeth.
- Contribute to food impaction: The cleft can trap food particles, making it difficult to keep the area clean and increasing the risk of inflammation and decay.
- Affect aesthetics: Depending on their size and location, interdental clefts can impact the appearance of the smile.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is typically made through a visual examination by a dentist or dental hygienist, followed by probing to measure the depth of the cleft.
