Ever thought of making your sparkly whites really sparkle? No, we’re not talking teeth whitening; we’re talking tooth gems. You must have seen celebrities like Post Malone, Cardi B, and Billy Eilish with tooth gems that add pizzazz to their brilliant smiles. Many influencers on social media also sport tooth gems. Are you now wondering what tooth gems are?
Are you new to the world of tooth gems? Let’s get you started on the latest fashion trends that are trending now. Tooth gems have been around for a long time and have experienced a revival in recent years. With celebrities flaunting this fashion trend, everyone is curious about it. Curiosity is often accompanied by caution. Are they safe? Are the myths about them true? These may be some of the questions that plague most of you.
In this blog, we will give you an overview of tooth gems, their safety, myths, and why professional application matters.
What are Tooth Gems?
Tooth gems are decorative adornments bonded to the surface of a tooth using a dental adhesive. They are quite similar to orthodontic brackets except that they are usually rhinestones or crystals. They add a sparkling temporary aesthetic enhancement to your smile.
Tooth gems have been traced back to ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations. These gems were used for aesthetic purposes, but they were also used as a symbol of social status and wealth. They also had spiritual meaning. They used materials like jade and turquoise to adorn the teeth of both males and females. They can be traced to various parts of the world, like India and some African and Middle Eastern cultures. They have traces in ancient China and Southeast Asian countries, where they were associated with royalty.
Apart from rhinestones and crystals, today, Swarovski crystals, real diamonds, and gold charms are also used as tooth gems. The application procedure is painless. There is no drilling involved and no damage to the tooth.
The Honest Truth About Tooth Gems
Let’s indulge in some real talk about the safety of these gems. The first question we need to address is, “Are they safe?” Yes, they are completely safe when applied by trained, experienced professionals. The next concern would be about the material. The materials are biocompatible and non-toxic. They are completely safe 24/7 in your mouth.
The application process is very similar to the application of orthodontic brackets. A dental-grade adhesive is used to glue the gems to the surface of the tooth. There is no drilling or pain involved in the procedure.
They can be removed safely and leave no lasting damage on the tooth. It is actually comparable to getting nail extensions or ear piercings, except that the procedure is performed by hygiene therapists, dentists, or professionals at studios like Colibri Tattoo & Piercings.
Top Five Myths About Tooth Gems
Many misconceptions are floating around about tooth gems. If you have been considering them, but this misinformation has held you back, it’s time to bust some common myths about tooth gems. Here we go:
Myth 1: Tooth Gems Ruin Your Teeth
The idea of a foreign object glued to your teeth 24/7 will raise this concern, for obvious reasons. No one would want to compromise dental health for aesthetics. But professional places use medical-grade adhesive to glue the gem to the tooth. It is a surface-level application that can be removed or reversed. It is safe for the enamel, with no drilling or abrasion involved.
There is a risk of damage with unlicensed practitioners. If you go to trained studios like Colibri Tattoo & Piercings, your tooth gym will sit comfortably on the surface of your tooth without any long-term damage. It is safe, gentle, and reversible.
Myth 2: They Are Painful
Nope. The process is 100% painless. This concern is understandable because anything related to the word ‘dental’ is always associated with pain. The gem application is probably as painful as getting a nail design. There are no invasive tools involved, no drilling, and no needles.
The procedure is pretty simple. The tooth is cleaned and dried. A small amount of the dental adhesive is applied to the tooth, and the gem is placed on it. It is then cured with a special UV light. And you’re good to go!
Myth 3: Only Teenagers Get Tooth Gems
Yes, tooth gems have been flaunted by teenagers more. But it is not limited to any age. It is popular with all age groups and all styles. It has become a form of self-expression, like tattoos and piercings. People beyond their 20s and 30s are also embracing tooth gems as a way to express their creativity.
Today, even corporate professionals are sporting tooth gems and flaunting them. They add the right touch of glamour to your smile and are for everyone who wants to amp up their style.
Myth 4: They Interfere with Eating or Brushing
They do not interfere with eating and brushing, but require some caution when biting into hard foods. They are non-intrusive and once applied, you can forget about them. You can drink and eat normally (even coffee and wine). Hard, sticky foods can dislodge the tooth gem, so be cautious when biting into such foods.
You can eat, brush, and floss as you always do, and the sparkle will remain.
Myth 5: You Can DIY Tooth Gems Safely
If you have seen viral videos of people applying tooth gems at home using nail glue or superglue, and feel tempted to try it, DO NOT!
DIY tooth gems can cause tooth decay and enamel erosion. The glue is not safe for use on the enamel and can cause glue burns. When applying on your own, there is a chance of misalignment and accidentally swallowing the gems.
Tooth gems require safe and sterile techniques that professional studios provide.
Tooth Gems Aftercare Tips
Professional studios are experts in the application of tooth gems. They have appropriate protocols relevant to dental work. If you are looking for the right place to get tooth gems, Colibri Tattoo & Piercing is the place to go. After the procedure, they will educate you about the aftercare and maintenance.
Some of the basic aftercare tips include keeping the tooth gem clean and avoiding sticky, hard foods. Refrain from picking or prying the gem. If the gem adornment feels shaky, visit the studio for adjustments.
Conclusion
Tooth gems are another trendy form of self-expression. It is for people of all ages and styles. It is safe and temporary. It can last 6 months to a year, depending on the care. It is painless and involves no drilling or abrasion. It requires professional removal when you change your mind about it.
Always get tooth gems from professional places for your safety and the quality of the tooth gems. DIY kits can cause damage and decay to the tooth. There are many options of materials available, such as rhinestones, crystals, Swarovski crystals, rubies, sapphires, and even diamonds.
Thinking of getting a tooth gem? Visit Colibri Tattoo & Piercing and chat with the experts. They will help your smile really sparkle!
