The 90s are making a comeback: styles, clothes, and even long-forgotten music are experiencing a revival. Unfortunately, another 90s pop culture trend has returned, the tooth gem. As more and more of our younger patients consider a tooth gem, we would like to educate them on the potential damage they cause. Today, we discuss the serious risks posed by tooth gems.
What are Tooth Gems?
A tooth gem is a small rhinestone jewel attached to the surface of a tooth using an adhesive. Some are small stones in the center of the tooth, and other times, people elect to place a jewel-encrusted cap over their teeth. Also, some people wear the grill, a decorative cover that fits over the front teeth, popularized by artists such as Lil Wayne and Jonathan Davis.
The Risks of Tooth Gems
With a gem, a person may develop a discolored area on the surface of the tooth. Also, jeweled gems and caps may wear away the enamel, increasing the risk of tooth decay and infection. Without proper dental care, such as regular brushing and flossing, dental jewelry offers places for stray food particles and harmful bacteria to hide. Finally, many people use at-home kits to apply gems to their teeth, and this increases the risk of damaging the tooth and causing complications, such as tooth decay.
The Dangers of Dental Grills
Dental grills pose more serious risks. Most grills were crafted using base metals, and these metals can cause allergic reactions or irritate the gums. If worn too long, a grill can damage the surface of the teeth, removing enamel and exposing the teeth to bacteria.
Visit Your Williamsburg Dentist
Do you have any further questions about the risks of tooth gems and dental grills? Talk to Dr. Steve Stensland today! He will gladly address any questions or concerns. If you require dental assistance or would like to learn more about our services, contact our Williamsburg dental office today at 757-645-4055.