In the world of fashion and personal expression, we see trends emerge everywhere—from clothing and tattoos to hairstyles and piercings.
One of the latest trends to gain popularity is tooth Jewellery, a subtle yet sparkling way to add a unique touch to your smile. But what exactly is tooth Jewellery, how is it applied, and what should you consider before getting one?
What Is Tooth Jewellery?
Tooth Jewellery is a cosmetic dental procedure where a small decoration is bonded to the surface of a tooth. Unlike a piercing, it is a non-invasive procedure that doesn’t involve any drilling or permanent alteration to the tooth.
The process is quick, painless, and completely reversible, making it a popular choice for those looking for a temporary way to accessorize their smile.
The Sparkle Options: Types of Tooth Jewellery
While the term “tooth Jewellery” might sound broad, it generally refers to a few different types of decorative accessories:
- Tooth Gems: These are the most common form of tooth Jewellery. They are typically small crystals, diamonds, or other precious stones that are bonded to the front surface of a tooth, usually an incisor or canine.
- Twinkles & Dazzlers: These are small, custom-made shapes crafted from gold, white gold, or other precious metals. Designs often include stars, hearts, moons, or simple shapes that are slightly larger and more noticeable than a typical tooth gem.
- Grillz: While not tooth Jewellery in the traditional sense, grillz are a form of removable dental Jewellery. They are custom-fitted covers made of precious metals like gold, silver, or platinum, often encrusted with gems. Unlike a tooth gem, grillz can be taken out at any time.
The Safe Application Process
The most important rule for getting tooth Jewellery is to have it done by a qualified dental professional. This ensures the procedure is safe and that your teeth are not damaged. Here’s what a typical application involves:
- Preparation: The dentist will clean and dry the surface of the tooth where the gem will be placed.
- Bonding: A special dental-grade adhesive, similar to the material used for orthodontic brackets, is applied to the tooth. This material is safe for your teeth and is completely removable.
- Placement: The chosen piece of Jewellery is carefully placed onto the adhesive.
- Curing: A special curing light is used to harden the adhesive in just a few seconds, bonding the Jewellery securely to the tooth.
The entire process usually takes less than 15-20 minutes and is completely painless.
Important Things to Consider Before You Dazzle
- Is it Safe? When applied by a dental professional using the correct materials, tooth Jewellery is very safe. The adhesive will not harm your tooth enamel, and the jewelry itself is designed for oral use.
- How Long Does It Last? Tooth Jewellery is not permanent. It can last anywhere from a few months to a few years, depending on your diet, oral hygiene, and the type of Jewellery you choose. It can be easily removed by a dentist.
- What About Maintenance? To keep your smile healthy, it is crucial to maintain excellent oral hygiene. Brush gently around the gem and continue to floss daily. Avoid biting into hard foods directly with the tooth that has the Jewellery.
- Are There Any Risks? The main risks occur when tooth Jewellery is applied by an untrained individual using non-dental materials (like super glue). This can lead to permanent damage to your enamel, allergic reactions, or even infection.
In conclusion, tooth Jewellery is a fun and reversible way to express your style. By choosing a professional for the application and committing to good oral hygiene, you can enjoy a safe and sparkling smile.