Craze Lines in Teeth
Craze lines might be tiny cracks in your teeth, but for some people, they’re by no means a minute problem. These lines detract from your appearance and chisel away at your confidence.
You, however, can rebuild your self-esteem and correct these imperfections.
How’s that possible, you wonder? At Kaban Endodontics, our endodontist in Vacaville, CA, provides an evaluation of craze lines and can determine the right treatment approach for you.
But is it necessary?
We have the answer! Read on to learn more.
General Information
Craze lines are tiny, shallow, vertical cracks or lines that can appear on the surface of your teeth. They may be more noticeable on the front ones, but they can occur on any tooth. They’re usually harmless and don’t cause any pain or sensitivity. Craze lines are commonly found in adults and are often caused by normal wear and tear over time, among other issues.
Causes
Craze lines can result from various factors, including age, teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), biting on hard objects, aggressive tooth brushing, or certain habits like nail-biting or chewing on pens. Over time, these repetitive actions can cause small fractures in the enamel.
Symptoms
In most cases, craze lines are purely cosmetic and don’t cause any pain or discomfort. They’re considered a normal part of aging and occur from usage. However, if you experience pain or sensitivity along with these lines, it could indicate a more serious issue. You should consult a dentist to evaluate and determine the severity if this is the case.
Evaluation
While our Vacaville dentist can usually diagnose craze lines through visual examination, cracks in teeth may require a more thorough evaluation.
Your dentist may use techniques like transillumination (shining light through the tooth) or dental imaging, such as X-rays or cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), to assess the extent and severity of a crack and determine whether it’s a crack or a chip.
When comparing craze lines vs. cracks, it’s important to note that craze lines are superficial, while cracks can extend beyond the tooth’s enamel and cause problems, including:
- Mild to extreme pain
- Tooth sensitivity to temperature
- Infection (when bacteria enter the crack)
Treatment
Treatment for craze lines in teeth isn’t typically necessary, especially if they are asymptomatic and only affect the enamel.
If you’re concerned about the appearance of the lines, cosmetic dental procedures such as bonding or veneers offer an option to improve the aesthetics of your teeth.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves the application of a tooth-colored resin material to repair, reshape, or enhance the appearance of your teeth.
This procedure is a versatile and non-invasive treatment option that can address various dental issues, like chips, cracks, gaps, stains or discoloration, and even misaligned teeth to some extent.
Dental Veneers
On the other hand, dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They’re typically made of porcelain or composite resin and bonded to your natural teeth to improve their appearance.
Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment as they can enhance your teeth’ shape, color, size, and overall aesthetics, including any cosmetic issues from the craze.
Your dentist in Vacaville, California, will evaluate the craze lines and help you decide which option is right for you.
Keep in mind that these treatments are mainly done for cosmetic purposes and aren’t essential for dental health.
Prevention
Right now, you may be wondering if you can prevent future tooth craze lines. While preventing all craze lines may not be possible, you can take certain measures to minimize their occurrence.
For instance, avoid biting or chewing on hard objects like ice or pens. Other tips include:
- Wearing a mouthguard if you grind or clench your teeth
- Practicing proper oral hygiene
- Visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings
- Avoiding acidic foods and drinks
Remember, if you notice any changes in your teeth or have concerns about craze lines, don’t hesitate to consult our dentist in Vacaville, California. Our dentist and the rest of our team are the best resources to assess your dental health, provide personalized recommendations, and offer suitable treatments to maintain the beauty and integrity of your teeth.
Or:
- Call us at: 707-689-5075
- Email us at: info@kabanendo.com
Whether it’s for craze lines in teeth or an infection in a tooth root, Kaban Endodontics is available. Our office is in Vacaville, but we also serve Fairfield, Davis, Dixon, American Canyon, Vallejo, Napa, and Suisun City.