Are Tooth Jewelry & Grills Safe For Teeth?

Tooth jewelry is a type of body jewelry that is worn on the teeth. It is typically made of small metal designs or beads that are attached to the teeth with dental adhesive. Tooth jewelry can be used to make a fashion statement, or it can be used to cover up a dental imperfection, such as a chipped tooth or a gap between teeth.

Grills are larger, more decorative pieces of jewelry that are worn on the teeth. They are typically made of gold, silver, or other metals. Grills are often used in hip-hop culture, and they have become increasingly popular in recent years.

Both tooth jewelry and grills can be damaging to the teeth if they are not applied properly or if they are not taken care of properly.

How Tooth Jewelry Can Damage Your Teeth

The adhesive used to attach the jewelry to your teeth can weaken the enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to cavities. The jewelry itself can also chip or scratch your teeth, and it can make it difficult to brush and floss properly, which can also lead to cavities. Additionally, tooth jewelry can harbor bacteria, which can cause gum disease.

If you are considering getting tooth jewelry, it is important to talk to your dentist about the risks and benefits. Your dentist can help you choose a safe and effective way to apply the jewelry, and they can also provide you with tips on how to care for your teeth after the jewelry is applied.

Here are some of the risks associated with tooth jewelry:

  • Enamel damage: The adhesive used to attach the jewelry to your teeth can weaken the enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to cavities.
  • Chipping and scratching: The jewelry itself can chip or scratch your teeth.
  • Difficulty brushing and flossing: Tooth jewelry can make it difficult to brush and floss properly, which can lead to cavities.
  • Bacteria buildup: Tooth jewelry can harbor bacteria, which can cause gum disease.

What About Grills?

Tooth jewelry and grills are both types of body jewelry that are worn on the teeth. However, there are some key differences between the two that can make one more damaging than the other.

Tooth jewelry is typically made of small, metal studs or beads that are attached to the teeth with dental adhesive. Grills, on the other hand, are larger, more decorative pieces that are made of gold, silver, or other metals. They are typically attached to the teeth with screws or brackets.

The main difference between tooth jewelry and grills is the amount of damage they can cause to the teeth. Tooth jewelry is less likely to cause damage because it is smaller and lighter than grills. However, it can still damage the teeth if it is not applied properly or if it is not taken care of properly.

Grills are more likely to cause damage to the teeth because they are larger and heavier. They can also put more pressure on the teeth, which can lead to chipping, cracking, and even tooth loss. Additionally, grills can be difficult to clean, which can lead to the buildup of plaque and bacteria.

Overall, tooth jewelry is less damaging than grills, though there are risks with both. Your dentist can help you choose the best option for you and can also provide you with tips on how to care for your teeth after the jewelry is applied, though we recommend you talk to your dentist about the risks and benefits of both before making a decision.

Dr. Patel can advise help you make an informed decision at our Carrollwood or Wesley Chapel dental office locations. Make an appointment today!