Tooth jewellery—sometimes called a tooth gem—is a small decorative crystal applied to the surface of a tooth. It’s a simple way to add a little sparkle to your smile without permanently altering the shape of your tooth.
At Shen Dental in Vancouver, tooth jewellery is professionally applied using dental bonding materials, without drilling or shaving the tooth.
How Is Tooth Jewellery Applied?
Professional tooth jewellery application is relatively simple and non-invasive.
First, the surface of the selected tooth is cleaned and prepared. The jewellery is then carefully positioned and attached using dental bonding material before being cured with a dental light.
There is no drilling involved, and the natural shape of the tooth isn’t changed during placement.
Why Have a Tooth Gem Applied by a Dental Professional?
You may come across DIY tooth-gem kits online, but applying products to your teeth without professional guidance can create unnecessary risks.
Having tooth jewellery placed in a dental office means the condition of the tooth can be assessed beforehand and dental materials and bonding techniques can be used for the application.
Professional placement also gives you an opportunity to ask questions about keeping the area around your tooth gem clean.
How Long Does Tooth Jewellery Last?
How long a tooth gem remains attached can vary considerably. Factors such as its location, your bite, eating habits and oral hygiene can all affect its longevity.
Some may remain in place for months or longer, but there is no guaranteed lifespan.
If your tooth jewellery comes loose or you decide you no longer want it, contact your dental office rather than attempting to remove or reattach it yourself.
Can You Brush and Floss With Tooth Jewellery?
Yes. Good oral hygiene remains important after having tooth jewellery placed.
You should continue brushing your teeth regularly and cleaning around the decorated tooth carefully. Keeping the area clean helps prevent plaque from accumulating around the jewellery.
Your dental team can show you how to care for the area after placement.
Does Getting a Tooth Gem Hurt?
Because the jewellery is bonded to the outside surface of the tooth and doesn’t require drilling, placement is generally a non-invasive procedure.
If you have sensitivity, existing dental concerns or questions about the procedure, let your dentist know before treatment.
Can Tooth Jewellery Be Removed?
Yes. Tooth jewellery is intended to be removable.
It’s best to have it removed professionally so the remaining bonding material can be carefully addressed and the tooth can be examined afterward.
Avoid trying to pry or scrape a tooth gem off yourself.
Is Tooth Jewellery Right for Everyone?
Not necessarily.
Before placing jewellery, your dentist can examine the tooth and determine whether there are dental issues that should be addressed first. For example, the health of the tooth and surrounding gums may affect whether placement is appropriate.
That’s one advantage of choosing professional tooth jewellery rather than a DIY kit.
Interested in Tooth Jewellery in Vancouver?
If you’d like to add a subtle sparkle to your smile, Shen Dental offers professional tooth jewellery in Vancouver.
Dr. Herbert Fisher and the Shen Dental team can assess your tooth, discuss placement options and answer your questions about caring for your tooth jewellery.
Shen Dental
3737 Oak Street, Unit 102
Vancouver, BC V6H 2M4
(604) 566-7777