WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Pickup, 2002 Ford F550 Super Duty, and 2002 Ford F450 Super Duty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Fig 1: Identifying Gear Teeth Damaged By Scratches
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
The term describes shallow linear indentations on the flank, running in the direction of sliding. Assess scratches as damage.