Tooth Gems Are Shining Again:
Learn About This Dazzling Trend
We're always willing to give our lives a little more glitz. Putting crystals in our hair? We're interested. Glitter eye makeup with a euphoria theme? Right away, yeah. Putting jewels on our teeth? Now, this is when we start to have some doubts.
However, the newest option to add some glitz and shine to your cosmetic routine in 2022 is with dental gems. One of the biggest trends in beauty this year, according to the Pinterest Predicts trends report, will be literally gluing jewels and rhinestones to your teeth.
But the appearance itself isn't really fresh. Tooth jewels are often thought of as the spawn of grills, which were primarily made popular by Black rappers and hip-hop performers in the 1990s. When compared to a mouthful of diamonds and jewels, the current trend is to apply gems to just a tooth or two as an accent piece.
These jewel-encrusted accessories, which range from delicate silver studs to extravagant multi-colored rhinestones in the form of hearts, crosses, and even brand logos, will make a striking statement in our grins. Even celebrities are embracing the craze with unique kinds of dental jewelry.
While we're all about trying new things, it goes without saying that we have some concerns about this trend, such as if it's safe. How are tooth jewels cared for and cleaned? How much time do they last? Therefore, we consulted two specialists to learn everything there is to know about tooth gems before we succumb to this trend (sorry, not sorry).
How do tooth gems work?
If you're wondering how the heck tooth gems are linked to your teeth, Shannon Nanne, a dental hygienist and manager of professional relations and education for Curaden US, explains that the process is quite similar to putting on braces. You don't need to drill, rest assured.
Tooth gems are typically bonded on a tooth surface by a dentist after etching the tooth with an etchant (a type of acid) to increase retention of the gem to the tooth's surface, claims Dr. Wesam Shafee, one of the nation's top dentists with a focus on aesthetic dentistry. "The length of a gem can vary from a few months to a few years, mainly depending on the bonding technique," he adds.
How can I remove my tooth gem?
When you're ready to try something new, you can take out a tooth gem or get rid of it entirely. Sometimes it comes off on its own, according to Nanne, but she advises having it properly removed by a dentist to avoid leaving any adhesive residue that could feel scratchy or even irritate the mouth.
According to Dr. Shafee, the gem is removed using specialist tools, and then the surface of the tooth is polished to remove any extra material that was utilized to bind the stone.
How much does getting a tooth gem cost?
Before purchasing a tooth gem, it is important to weigh the price of both the gem itself and its application.
According to Dr. Shafee, the cost to apply the gem in-office is about $200. Depending on the jewel's substance, the cost of the gem might range from $30 to $200. For instance, a crystal will cost less than a diamond or actual gold.
Are tooth gems safe?
According to Dr. Shafee, "Generally speaking, tooth gems are not advised by most dentists due to the possibility that they may dislodge and be ingested or aspirated into the airway." They can also trap food and bacteria, raising questions about tooth decay.
However, Nanne is adamant that there shouldn't be any issues as long as you're taking good care of your teeth.
How do I look after my tooth gem?
According to Nanne, "the gem must be cleaned exceedingly properly since plaque around the gem can lead to a cavity."
To reach the difficult-to-reach places surrounding the tooth gem and ideally remove any food that may be lodged there, Dr. Shafee advises brushing your teeth thoroughly twice a day with a soft bristle brush.
Around your jewel, Nanne advises using a Curaprox 12460 Velvet toothbrush ($9; curaprox.usa). The softest toothbrush that effectively and safely removes plaque is one with 12,460 filaments, which are sensationally delicate on your enamel.