If you have developed a number of cavities, then you are probably used to getting dental fillings by now. Dental fillings work well when you take the time to maintain them. Participating in certain activities can result in developing craze lines around your dental fillings. If this happens, then this means that your fillings are compromised and may need to get replaced. This can be costly especially as a teen. Luckily, there are a few tips that you can use to help prevent this from happening.

Be aware of the Hard Foods You Eat

Hard foods can be enjoyable in the moment especially if they are in the form of your favorite sweets. However, they have a lasting affect that is not common in other softer foods. Hard foods apply stress to your teeth. If you have fillings, then your teeth are already weaker than healthy teeth without fillings. Eating hard foods can result in superficial cracks called craze lines. If you have fillings, then you may notice these lines near the base of your teeth or near the filling. In order to prevent this, keep your favorite hard foods to minimum. If you want to satisfy a craving, then you should consider foods that have the same taste but will not leave your teeth nearly as damaged. For example, soft caramel candies that can easily be chewed are a good alternative to harder caramels.

Be careful How Hard You Bite on Your Mouth Guard

If you play contact sports, then you are familiar and comfortable with wearing a mouth guard for hours. While a mouth guard is essential for maintaining healthy teeth, they force used to bit down on them can wear down your teeth. As your teeth wear down, they will form cracks. Since the mouth guard comes in contact with the surface of your teeth, you will notice the cracks closer to your dental fillings. Therefore, it is always important to be aware of how hard you are biting on your mouth guard. During to practice, make an effort to see if you are placing too much stress on your teeth. If there is too much stress, slightly relax your grip.

Craze lines are not only aesthetically unpleasant but they can result in a number of dental issues as they get worse. Therefore, use these tips to make sure that you are able to prevent this especially when wearing fillings. Check out places like Pike Dentistry for more information.