A tooth gem is a small, elegant jewelry accessory a little crystal or gem that is securely mounted on the surface of a tooth for a sparkly, fun look. For those who wish to enhance their smile with a bit of personality but are not interested in any changes to their teeth, tooth gems are now a trend. They’re not painful, not permanent, and done by a trained dentist using safe dental products. This blog covers the definition of tooth gems, their benefits, their use among professionals, the lifespan of tooth gems, and the safety of tooth gems for your teeth and gums, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not the trend is suitable for you.
What is a tooth gem, and how does it work?
Tooth gems are small decorative pieces such as crystals or rhinestones that are attached to a tooth with a safe dental adhesive. It is similar to a small sticker fitting onto something else, but it’s made specifically for teeth and stuck with materials that are used in dentistry and are considered safe for teeth. The gem is placed on the outer enamel surface and has no effect whatsoever on the inner structure of the tooth. It is a popular and low-commitment cosmetic option to demonstrate personal style and adds sparkle to a smile without altering the form of the tooth or needing any drilling.
Understanding Tooth Jewelry and How It Is Applied
The application of tooth jewelry is done with a mild dental bonding agent that bonds the gem to the surface of the tooth without causing any damage. The trained professional cleans and dries the tooth first, then carefully places the gem in the selected area, and then cures the bond with a special light.
What is the process to put tooth gems on teeth?
Tooth gems are set by a trained odontologist using a gradual process that ensures the safety of the tooth throughout the process. The tooth is first cleaned and polished to ensure that there is no plaque or debris on the tooth surface that would interfere with bonding. The next step is to use a safe dental bonding agent and carefully place the gem in the desired location. A special curing light cures the bond rapidly, making the gem secure. The procedure is usually swift, painless and doesn’t involve any drilling on the tooth.
Applying a professional tooth gem in the correct manner.
- Thoroughly cleaning and polishing the surface of the tooth in advance
- Using a safe, dental grade bonding solution on a full surface of the enamel.
- The ability to put the gem exactly in the desired spot with hand steadiness
- Curing the bond with a special light in a short period of time to secure a bond.
Tooth gems generally last for how many years?
The lifespan of tooth gems ranges from a few months to a couple of years, depending on the individual’s habits and the level of care provided. They are not set in the tooth permanently so everyday habits such as eating, brushing and chewing can impact their longevity over time. Care and feeding of the gem and preventing undue pressure on it directly will make it last noticeably longer over time. When a gem is loose or has fallen off, it can normally be reattached or replaced relatively rapidly in a subsequent visit by professional.
The following factors can adversely affect durability and maintenance:
- Pressure and feeding directly on the gemstone.
- Brushing technique and consistency of oral hygiene habits per day
- The position and location of gem in the tooth
- The quality and precision of the initial bond used as a professional application.
Are tooth gems safe for your teeth and gums?
Just like people are concerned are whitening strips bad for your teeth there are also questions about tooth gems. Tooth gems are usually safe to use in the long term, when they are used properly by a trained professional. The materials used are purpose-developed for dental application and will not harm normal enamel if correctly positioned and at the hands of a skilled applicator. If the gem is applied by an untrained person or an adhesive other than dental cement, it can irritate gums or damage the surface of the tooth, causing problems. That’s why professional application is critical for maintaining your long-term oral health, comfort and enamel strength for years to come.
Possible Risks, Enamel Issues and Oral Health Concerns
The primary risks are lower-quality adhesives or placing it without the proper professional guidance or dental training. When properly applied with dental-quality materials, the proper use of gems protects the enamel and will not irritate any gums when successfully applied by a trained, licensed provider.
When it comes to protecting your smile while enjoying some fun with tooth jewelry, it’s important to make a choice for professional application. In addition to general dental care, LiT Dental in McKinney TX provides a variety of cosmetic dental treatments to help your smile remain healthy and looking its best. If patients are interested in cosmetic dental options, they can be treated with crowns, tooth fillings, teeth whitening and veneers along with tooth cosmetic treatments, as provided by LiT Dental. Every treatment plan is assessed by a qualified dental professional in order to ensure your enamel and dental health are protected.
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Conclusion
When applied by a trained dental professional, a tooth gem is a safe, fun way to add a little sparkle to your smile. It is important to know how long they last, how to apply them properly, and how they work so that you make an informed decision. At LiT Dental McKinney, TX, you’ll receive top-notch advice and cosmetic treatment options to keep your smile healthy and shiny.
