Are you thinking about adding a little sparkle to your teeth? Tooth gems and grills is the emerging fashion statement loved by favourite celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Rita Ora, Kendal Jenner and more. But what are teeth gems and are teeth gems bad for you? Here’s everything you need to know before deciding whether you should decorate your teeth.
What are tooth gems and grills?
Tooth gems are small, decorative crystals or jewels temporarily or permanently attached to tooth surfaces. Dental grills are removable or permanent metal covers that fit over one or more teeth, often made from gold, silver, or other precious metals.
Tooth gems have a rich history dating back thousands of years. The Mayans and Aztecs adorned teeth with materials such as jade, turquoise, and pyrite, often for cultural and spiritual reasons—jade symbolised life and protection. Similarly, in ancient China, tooth embellishments reflected yin and yang, symbolising harmony, while in Africa and the Middle East, they denoted wealth and beauty.
The practice waned during the colonial era due to Western beauty standards but resurged in the 1990s, driven by hip-hop culture and celebrity influence. Today, tooth gems are a mainstream trend, celebrated for their ability to express personal style and individuality.
How are tooth gems applied to the teeth?
Getting a tooth gem is a simple and painless procedure, but it should always be done by a qualified technician for safety and effectiveness.
Consultation: A professional technician evaluates your teeth and discusses your design preferences.
Cleaning: The tooth is cleaned and prepped to ensure proper adhesion.
Application: The gem is attached with dental adhesive and secured using a curing light. This process takes 10–20 minutes per gem.
Aftercare: Instructions are provided on maintaining oral hygiene and avoiding certain foods to extend the gem’s longevity.
Tooth gems typically last 6–12 months, and removal should always be handled by a dental professional to protect your enamel.
Are tooth gems bad for you?
Hygiene Problems
- Bacteria Accumulation: Tooth gems and grills create additional surface areas where bacteria can collect, potentially leading to increased plaque buildup and tooth decay.
- Cleaning Difficulties: These accessories make thorough tooth cleaning more challenging. The extra surfaces and tight spaces can trap food particles and bacteria, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Potential Tooth Damage
- Enamel Erosion: The adhesive used to attach gems or the metal of grills can cause permanent damage to the tooth enamel.
- Tooth Sensitivity: The materials and attachment process may cause increased tooth sensitivity and potential structural weakening.
Our recommendations for dental accessorising
If you’re considering tooth gems or grills, you should always discuss your plans with your dentists, who can assess your oral health and provide personalised advice. In any case, don’t take the DIY route. If you want to embellish your teeth with grills and gems, find a professional who can do it for you, like an experienced dentist. They will make sure that the materials used are non-toxic and will be able to place them in the best way possible to avoid bacteria.
What is also important is to prioritise oral hygiene and maintain a rigorous routine, including brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, using antiseptic mouthwash, and visiting your dentist every six months.
Final Thoughts
While tooth gems and grills can be a unique form of self-expression, they should never come at the cost of your dental health. Your teeth are irreplaceable, and protecting them should always be the priority.
Remember, a healthy smile is always the most attractive accessory you can wear!
If you want a bright smile, we encourage you to consider a professional teeth whitening treatment—a perfectly safe alternative! For those who want a significant change, there are other cosmetic options, such as composite veneers or porcelain veneers. Contact us to schedule an appointment with our dentists for personalised advice.
