Dental Area
Grillz and dental gems: all about the tooth jewelry trend
Dental Aesthetics

Grillz, Gems, and Tooth Tattoos: The New Trend Worrying Dentists

You've seen them sparkling on the smiles of celebrities, influencers, and fashion-forward individuals. From gold grillz to glittering tooth gems and even intricate tattoos, dental ornamentation is a major trend. But while these accessories can add a unique flair to your look, dentists are raising concerns about their potential impact on oral health. Let's break down the different types of tooth jewelry and what you need to know before you bling out your smile.

Tooth Gems: The Subtle Sparkle

Tooth gems are by far the most popular form of dental jewelry. These tiny crystals or precious metal charms are bonded to the surface of a tooth using a strong dental adhesive, similar to the one used for orthodontic brackets. The American Dental Association (ADA) stresses that this procedure should always be performed by a dental professional to ensure safe materials are used and the tooth is not damaged.

The main advantage is that the process is non-invasive and reversible; a dentist can easily remove the gem without harming the enamel. A professionally applied gem can last from six months to over a year. However, any object bonded to a tooth creates new edges and surfaces where plaque can accumulate, increasing the risk of cavities and gum inflammation if oral hygiene isn't meticulous.

Twinkles: Bolder, Shaped Dental Jewelry

A step up from simple gems, Twinkles are larger, pre-formed shapes made of gold or other precious metals, often featuring a small diamond or gemstone. Popular shapes include stars, hearts, and moons. Due to their larger size and more complex shapes, the risk of irritating the soft tissues of the lips and cheeks is higher. The application and removal of Twinkles must be done by a dentist to ensure they are placed correctly and do not interfere with your bite or speech.

Tooth Tattoos: Temporary Art vs. Permanent Alteration

Unlike skin tattoos, tooth tattoos do not involve needles. There are two main types:

  • Temporary "Tattooths": These are decals or stickers applied to the tooth surface. They wear off naturally after a few weeks but can trap plaque and irritate the gums.
  • Tattoo on a Crown: For a permanent design, a dental technician can incorporate a custom tattoo into a dental crown before it is permanently cemented onto a tooth. This is irreversible, as it requires the tooth to be prepared for the crown. This is usually only done when a crown is already medically necessary.

Grillz: Removable Mouth Jewelry with Significant Risks

Popularized by hip-hop culture, grillz (or grills) are removable decorative covers, often made of gold, silver, or precious metals, that snap over one or more teeth. While they can make a bold fashion statement, they pose the most significant risk to oral health. The ADA warns that grillz can easily trap food particles and plaque between the metal and the teeth, leading to a rapid increase in the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Ill-fitting grillz can also cause excessive wear or damage to opposing teeth.

The Dentist's Verdict: A Guide to Safer Self-Expression

While most dentists advise against dental jewelry due to the added risks, they recognize the desire for self-expression. If you choose to get tooth adornments, follow these essential rules to protect your oral health:

  • Always Use a Professional: Never use a DIY kit or an unlicensed technician. Only a licensed dentist or dental hygienist should apply tooth gems to ensure sterile conditions and safe, non-toxic materials.
  • Ensure Excellent Oral Hygiene: You must be extra diligent with your oral hygiene. Brush carefully around the jewelry and use floss daily to remove plaque that accumulates at its edges.
  • Limit Wear Time for Grillz: If you wear grillz, they should be removed and cleaned daily, and you should never eat or sleep with them in.
  • Get Regular Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly so they can check the health of the tooth and gums around the jewelry.

Conclusion: Style and Oral Health Can Coexist

Dental jewelry can be a fun and unique way to express your personality, but it is not without risks. While semi-permanent options like professionally applied tooth gems are the safest choice, they still require an elevated commitment to oral hygiene. Removable accessories like grillz carry the highest risk and should be worn with extreme caution and for limited periods. Before you commit to this trend, have an open conversation with your dentist to ensure your mouth is healthy enough and to understand the long-term commitment to care that comes with your new bling.

FAQ: Your Top Questions About Dental Jewelry

When applied and removed by a dental professional, tooth gems do not damage the enamel. The process is similar to applying an orthodontic bracket. The main risk is not the gem itself, but the potential for plaque to build up around it, which can lead to decay if oral hygiene is not excellent.

Yes, and you absolutely should. It's recommended to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle around the area of the gem. Pay special attention to brushing the edges where the gem meets the tooth to prevent plaque accumulation.

The cost can vary widely, but you can typically expect to pay between $50 and $200 for a simple crystal gem applied by a dental professional. The price increases for genuine diamonds, precious metals, or more intricate designs.

Yes, grillz can be very bad for your teeth if not cared for properly. They trap plaque and bacteria, significantly increasing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. The American Dental Association does not recommend them for long-term wear and advises removing them before eating and for daily cleaning.