Dental bonding is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the surface of the teeth to improve their appearance and function. This versatile technique can address various dental issues, such as chipped or cracked teeth, gaps between teeth, discoloration, and even minor misalignments.
Just as ear jewels, piercings, and tattoos are becoming more and more popular among celebrities; tooth jewelry is also making its way back. Dental jewelry (Tooth Gem) is a gem, a rhinestone, or a crystal that’s put onto a tooth of your choice using an adhesive without damaging the enamel. These gems come in a variety of colors, sizes, and even shapes. It can be made out of gold, diamonds, glass stones, or just diamante.
Tooth gems: symbols of wealth
Back in 2,500 B.C. Etruscan and Mayan women wore jewelry in their teeth as a symbol of wealth and power. It was in the 1980s that tooth jewelry gained popularity due to hip-hop culture and artists. Here’s a list of some celebrities with tooth jewelry:
Hailey Bieber: The self-professed 'nepo baby' has toyed with tooth gems on several occasions. The supermodel has followed her husband Justin Bieber's penchant for edgy attire spanning tattoos and piercings, by adding a gem to her pearly whites.
Dua Lipa: The megastar who has dipped her toe into the world of tooth gems. The singer has previously elevated her electric wardrobe with a sprinkling of tooth gems, turning out the most fantastical fairy bread aesthetic.
Katy Perry: The singer lit up the red carpet back in 2017 with a subtle twinkle of a tooth jewel. She has also used tooth gems in music videos such as Dark Horse ft. Juicy J.
Kendall Jenner: Just like her besties Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid, the supermodel also made a case for opulence orthodontics with a semi-permanent tooth gem as she partied with famous friends.
Other celebrities such as Miley Cyrus, Post Malone, Rihanna, Rita Ora & Rosalía are known to use tooth gems for music videos, the red carpet, or just a piece of glam for their day-to-day lives.
Dental Jewelry Procedure
Installation of tooth jewelry is very simple and takes about 10-15 minutes. First, your tooth enamel will be cleaned with a fluoride-free polishing paste, then the portion will be etched with orthophosphoric acid. The next process is the application of a bonding agent which will be left for 20 seconds, after which a small amount of composite is placed on the surface of the tooth. Your jewel will be placed in the center of the composite and takes 20 seconds to set on the tooth.
Dental Jewelry Aftercare
If you want your tooth jewelry to last it’s important to maintain proper oral hygiene after a tooth piercing. You should avoid brushing your teeth vigorously and eating spicy or sticky foods. You should also avoid touching or playing with the jewelry once it’s placed. Check-ups are also important every 6 months to make sure the jewelry is not damaging your teeth or gums.
Removal of Tooth Jewel
In case you want to have your tooth jewelry removed, you’ll need to make an appointment with your dentist. You should never try to remove the jewel at home as it can badly harm your tooth. The procedure is similar to the removal of orthodontic brackets. As the dentist pops off the gem from your tooth, your teeth will be polished to remove any remaining bonding material from your tooth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tooth jewelry has become a popular trend among celebrities, adding a unique sparkle to their smiles. This fashion statement, often seen on the red carpet and in music videos, is not just about vanity but also self-expression. Celebrities like Katy Perry, Pink, and Hailey Baldwin have embraced this trend, showcasing their individuality and style. However, it’s important to remember that while it may be visually appealing, dental health should always be a priority. Therefore, anyone considering tooth jewelry should consult with a dental professional to understand the potential risks and ensure the procedure is done safely.
