We’ve all heard time and time again about the benefits of a shining smile. But what if having bright white enamel doesn’t quite cut it? What if you want a smile so brilliant it literally comes with a carat rating? A tooth gem is a fun way to show a bit of bling whenever you crack a smile. But even though these decorations have been around since the 90s, many people still have questions about them. Why is everyone wearing them and what makes them so fabulous? Let’s find out.
WHAT IS A TOOTH GEM?
The name is pretty self-explanatory: a tooth gem is a tiny rhinestone, jewel, or metallic decoration affixed with a dental-grade bracket glue to the outside of your tooth. A tooth gems price can vary depending on the size and type of materials used. Quality gold, lead-free crystals, and certified advanced Swarovski gems are all safe and gorgeous additions to your mouth. For safety and sanitation reasons, you cannot bring your own gem to your appointment.
If you’re wondering if a tooth gem is permanent, you might also want to know if they’re safe. The good news is that, when applied by a professional, they’re completely safe. Because this piece of jewelry is going inside your mouth, the gem and glue are both biocompatible. And yes, if your gem detaches naturally, you can swallow and pass it with no problems or discomfort. If the time comes when you want to have your gem removed, you’ll need to schedule a trip to the dentist. To protect your teeth, a dental professional must remove the gem and polish off any lingering adhesive.
ARE TOOTH GEMS PERMANENT?
Because this type of dental enhancement doesn’t require any drilling, they’re not permanent. It’s not easy to anticipate how long the decoration will last, because many different factors will affect it. Generally, you could be admiring your upgraded smile in the mirror for anywhere between a few months and a few years. If you want to make your gem last longer, brushing your teeth gently and avoiding hard candies and other destructive foods will help.
CAN ANYONE GET A TOOTH GEM?
While tooth gems look great on anyone, unfortunately, not everyone is a good candidate. The type of glue that affixes a crystal to your teeth is only compatible with organic material. In other words, a tooth gem can only adhere to your natural tooth. If you have a veneer, denture, or dental implant where you want to apply a gem, the glue won’t apply correctly, and your gem won’t last. Talk to your dentist if you’re unsure whether your teeth will be a good fit.
So, is a tooth gem permanent? No, but it is safe, stylish, and fun! Because who needs pearly whites when you can have ruby whites? If you’re thinking of taking your smile to the next level, check out the tooth gem FAQ on our website for more information, then schedule an appointment with one of our expert stylists. We’d love to chat!