Are you familiar with the emerging trend of ‘Tooth Gems’? Also known as dental jewelry, this trend has taken off as several celebrities have started adorning their teeth with gems. This relatively affordable form of self-expression is gaining popularity among Gen Z. However, it would be best if you were cautious because many often perform the procedure non-professionally and without discretion.
Tooth Gems (Dental Jewelry)
Tooth gems, a portmanteau of Tooth and Gem, refer to the gems attached to the teeth. Not necessarily gems. People attach these tiny, cute accessories to their teeth to express individuality. This trend has evolved from grills, a symbol of flex in the hip-hop scene.
A Time When People Style Even Their Teeth.
Tooth gems, with their various designs and shapes, are great for expressing individuality. Celebrities like Blackpink’s Lisa, rapper Lee Young Ji, and even Ningning from aespa have showcased their tooth gem styles. They are lighter and cheaper than grills, making them less burdensome for younger generations to try. Especially among teenagers and those in their twenties, the trend is catching on quickly because TV shows frequently feature it.
It’s Not a New Procedure
Tooth gems are not a new procedure. They had a brief moment of popularity in the early 2000s and have recently gained attention again through social media. Some dental clinics provide tooth gem services, but because of their cosmetic nature, many non-medical institutions like nail salons and tattoo shops often perform the procedure.
The Process of Tooth Gem Application
Applying a tooth gem begins with choosing the tooth to adorn and cleaning its surface. Professionals etch the tooth with an acid solution, apply adhesive, and then attach the gem using a special resin. This process mirrors the way they attach brackets during orthodontic treatment. The bonding process can cause damage to the teeth, and if not properly bonded, plaque and tartar can easily build up around the attachment, leading to cavities.
Grills Aren’t Good Either
Grills are a type of dental prosthesis, and wearing them without customization can cause tooth wear. If you use grills made of metals other than gold or those used to make dentures, there is a risk of tooth discoloration when the coating peels off. Additionally, food debris can become trapped if you eat while wearing the grills, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive and potentially lead to cavities.
High Possibility of Causing Tooth Discoloration
If the gem falls off and the adhesive remains, it can cause tooth discoloration. Unlike orthodontic brackets designed to fall off the tooth surface easily, tooth gems do not easily fall off, damaging the tooth enamel. Symptoms like yellowing or sensitivity can develop if the tooth enamel gets damaged.
What If You’ve Already Got a Tooth Gem?
A tooth gem can last anywhere from a month to six months once applied. During this time, paying particular attention to dental care is crucial. Since a regular toothbrush might not effectively clean around the gem, experts recommend using a toothbrush designed for dental prosthetics. If improper brushing continues, cavities can form, gums can become sensitive, and if bleeding from the gums or tooth sensitivity occurs after wearing dental accessories, getting a check-up and treatment is essential.
The Removal Process Is Important
In dental clinics, when removing orthodontic brackets, a special remover that looks like a wrench is used to pick and remove them, and if they don’t come off quickly, they are ground off. Removing any remaining adhesive debris and smoothing the surface is also essential. However, as most tooth gem procedures are performed in regular beauty salons, it is crucial to check whether such professional work is possible.
Self-Application Is Prohibited
Attaching a variety of gems to the flat surface of a tooth may seem as easy as sticking on a sticker, but it’s a complex and precise job that requires a professional touch. Many online videos of people applying tooth gems exist, but experts do not recommend this potentially harmful procedure. Not only could you ingest toxic adhesive, but the rough surface of the gem could also cause injuries to your mouth or teeth.
To Get a Proper Procedure?
Procedures performed by non-dentists can be considered unlicensed medical practices and may violate medical laws. The gems are not approved medical devices and can negatively affect the body if attached to the mouth for a long time. Some dental clinics officially perform tooth gem procedures, so it would be safer to do the procedure at a dental clinic, wouldn’t it? When you have a tooth gem, it’s essential to get regular check-ups at the dentist, as the more accessories you have, the more food can get stuck, and the tooth surface can be damaged. Also, try not to get too many tooth gems.
By. Jeon Shin Young (press@daily.co.kr)
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