Your gum is likely covering your molar because the tooth is partially erupted or doesn't have enough room to grow. This gum flap is known as an operculum.
According to recent findings (February 15, 2024), a gum flap, or operculum, can form over molars that are:
- Partially erupted: The tooth hasn't fully grown out of the gumline.
- Lacking sufficient space: There isn't enough room in your mouth for the molar to erupt properly.
In these situations, the gum tissue can remain partially covering the tooth's surface. Sometimes, removal of the tissue is required to prevent potential issues.
