Dental jewellery is back on the rise after yet another resurgence, these little pieces of crystal and gold can add so much to your personal style and are more or less always a talking point. After a string of bad application techniques (hello Y2K) the service has been revolutionised and now it is becoming more accessible, it is even more important to understand what you should be looking for and what you should be avoiding.
Typically tooth gems are made of high-quality materials such as lead free glass and 22ct gold, or at least they should be. Be wary of opals, semi-precious stones or acrylic based rhinestones, none of these are substantial enough to last in the oral environment (a waste of your cash) and some materials such as silver, are toxic. There are a few really high quality, lead free crystal suppliers, most notably you will recognise the brand Swarovski, but don’t be fooled! Swarovksi ceased their sales of rhinestones for use by nail and tooth gem technicians and they are more or less impossible for technicians to purchase now. Instead, you will likely be given Preciosa, an extremely high grade competitor. Technicians use the Swarovski name to help you determine the quality you are getting as most clients (unless they frequent the world of rhinestones), will likely have never heard of Preciosa.
Want me to blow your mind even more? All crystal tooth gems are not made for teeth. That’s right! No gem is manufactured for this particular use, hence why there is a limitation on what types of crystals, sizes and colours are available, there are only so many that meet the quality and safety parameters needed for use in the mouth. At least, if your technician is following the standard that is.
The Process
Gems are carefully adhered to the surface of the tooth using a 2 or 3-step technique, involving etch, bond and a dental-grade adhesive. What sets safe tooth gems apart is their non-invasive nature, ensuring the enamel remains undamaged. A qualified technician will know how long to leave etching gel on the tooth surface, as well as how to safely handle UV light, avoiding the soft tissues. Dental professionals recommend seeking application either from a dental professional or a reputable studio with a qualified and trained technician, to ensure proper hygiene practices and prevent any potential damage to the teeth. Ultimately maintaining the health and integrity of their smile for many years to come. Once the gems are removed or eventually fall off, the tooth should remain as it was prior to treatment.
Qualified professionals can guide you through appropriate gem placement, ensuring that they don't interfere with your bite, every single person is different and just because you like a design on someone else, doesn’t make you a suitable candidate for the same design. You want a technician who is willing to tell you no and advise something more suitable in its place.
oral hygiene
Maintaining good oral health while getting tooth gems is essential for several reasons:
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Minimising the risk of damage: The process of getting tooth gems involves manipulating the tooth surface, which can potentially weaken the enamel or cause other dental issues if not done correctly. Good oral hygiene practices help keep the teeth and gums healthy, reducing the risk of any complications or damage during the tooth gem application process.
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Preventing tooth decay and gum disease: Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to the formation of plaque, tartar, and bacteria that can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. By maintaining proper oral health practices, such as brushing twice a day, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash, you can prevent these issues and ensure that your teeth and gums are in good condition before and after getting tooth gems.
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Preventing bad breath: Poor oral hygiene often leads to bad breath due to the accumulation of harmful bacteria in the mouth. By taking care of your oral health, you can minimize the risk of bad breath, which can be embarrassing and affect your confidence, especially after getting tooth gems that draw increased attention to your smile.
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Regular dental check-ups: keeping on top of your routine and having regular check-ups with your dentist is crucial for allowing professionals to inspect your tooth gems and ensure your overall oral health remains uncompromised. An experienced dentist will be adept at identifying early signs of decay or gum disease.
in conclusion
Ensuring safe tooth gems involves a few important steps to protect your teeth and oral health and is a collaborative effort between technician and client. Here are the necessary steps:
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Choose a Professional: It is crucial to select a reputable dental professional or a certified tooth gem technician to ensure that the procedure is performed safely. Look for someone with experience and training in tooth gem application. I am of course both, so theres that!
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Consultation and Examination: Before getting a tooth gem, schedule a consultation with the professional or in my case, every appointment has a consultation before treatment as standard. They will examine your teeth and discuss your expectations, ensuring that you are a suitable candidate for tooth gem application. This step is essential to identify any existing oral health issues or potential risks.
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Oral Hygiene: Prior to the application of a tooth gem, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene. Brush and floss your teeth regularly, ensuring that they are clean and free from any plaque or tartar buildup. This will help prevent any potential infections or complications.
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Sterile Environment: Make sure that the dentist or technician is using single use instruments and follows proper hygiene protocols. Ensure that they wear gloves, use disposable tools, and maintain a clean and sanitised work environment. This step is crucial to prevent any risk of cross infection.
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Tooth Preparation: The tooth surface needs to be cleaned thoroughly before applying the tooth gem. The dental professional will remove any plaque or debris from the tooth and disinfect it properly. This step ensures better adhesion and reduces the risk of bacteria buildup.
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Safe Adhesive: Ensure that the dental professional uses a safe and dental grade adhesive specifically designed for tooth gems. This adhesive should be non-toxic, non-irritating, and compatible with oral tissues to prevent any adverse reactions.
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Proper Placement: The tooth gem should be placed carefully and precisely on the tooth surface. The dental professional will ensure that it is correctly aligned, securely attached, and in a comfortable position that avoids interfering with biting or chewing.
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Aftercare Instructions: Your dental professional will provide you with specific aftercare instructions. Follow them diligently to ensure that the gum tissue around the tooth gem remains healthy and to prevent any complications. Avoid applying excessive pressure, biting on hard objects, or consuming foods and drinks that may stain the gem or weaken the adhesive.
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Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of your tooth gem and overall oral health. Your dentist will ensure that everything is in order, identify any potential issues, and provide necessary care or maintenance.
By following these steps, you can ensure the safe application and maintenance of tooth gems while minimising the potential risks to your teeth and oral health. If you want to book in with a technician who understands both worlds, you know where the booking page is!