Have you ever noticed small cracks on the surface of your teeth when looking in the mirror? If so, you may have what are known as craze lines. While they might seem alarming at first, craze lines are relatively common and harmless in most cases.

Craze lines are tiny cracks that develop in the enamel of your teeth due to years of natural wear and tear. Over time, regular chewing can cause this kind of stress on your teeth. If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding) or frequently use your teeth to open packaging or cut objects, you may be more prone to these lines.

These lines can appear on both the front and back of your teeth, and they are especially common in adults. Most of the time, craze lines are considered more of a cosmetic issue than a medical one. However, they can become stained if you consume certain beverages like coffee or red wine, or if you use tobacco products.

At Lane Dental, our dentist in Carol Stream can evaluate your craze lines to ensure they aren’t causing or contributing to other dental issues, such as increased wear from teeth grinding. In the vast majority of cases, craze lines are not harmful and don’t require treatment. There is some research suggesting that these lines could increase tooth sensitivity after whitening treatments, but the evidence is still inconclusive.

If you’d like to minimize your chances of developing craze lines, regular dental visits and maintaining excellent oral hygiene are key. While craze lines may be unavoidable for some people, keeping up with preventive care can help keep your teeth in the best possible condition.

At Lane Dental, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. If you have any concerns about your dental health or have noticed craze lines on your teeth, don’t hesitate to contact our dentist in Carol Stream. We’re here to answer your questions and provide the care you need to keep your smile bright for years to come!