Craze Lines

Craze Lines

Definition and Classification
Craze lines represent a type of dental injury categorized under the broader group of longitudinal tooth fractures.

Nature and Extent

• Craze lines affect only the enamel of the tooth.
• Unlike other forms of longitudinal fractures (such as cusp fractures or cracked tooth syndrome), craze lines do not involve deeper hard or soft dental tissues.
• These superficial fractures are not deep enough to permit bacterial penetration, in contrast to more extensive cracks that may allow microbial invasion, potentially leading to pulpal or periapical disease.

Location and Prevalence

• Craze lines are present in the majority of adult teeth.
• In posterior teeth, they are common and typically extend across marginal ridges or along buccal and lingual surfaces.
• In anterior teeth, long vertical lines are frequently observed.
• Craze lines usually originate from the occlusal (masticatory) surface, with a primary mesiodistal orientation, and may gradually extend cervically or apically over time.

Clinical Features and Management

• Craze lines are asymptomatic and do not produce pain or discomfort.
• As they represent only a superficial esthetic defect without clinical symptoms, no treatment is required.

Differential Diagnosis

Craze lines may be mistaken for deeper dental cracks. Distinguishing between them is essential:

• Diagnostic tool: Transillumination (passing light through the tooth) is effective in differentiating craze lines from deeper cracks.
• Craze lines: If the fracture is confined to enamel, light transmission is possible.
• Dentin cracks: If the fracture extends into dentin, light is blocked due to the discontinuity within the dentin structure.

Key Points (Summary)

• Craze lines are superficial enamel fractures classified under longitudinal tooth fractures.
• They are highly prevalent in adult dentition, especially in posterior teeth.
• They are asymptomatic, purely esthetic, and require no treatment.
• Transillumination is a reliable method for distinguishing craze lines from deeper dentinal cracks.