Celebrity Tooth Jewelry Trends and How to Safely Recreate Them
That extra sparkle in a celebrity’s smile isn’t always just their natural charisma—sometimes it’s literally a gemstone catching the light. Tooth jewelry has become one of the most distinctive beauty trends embraced by stars across music, film, and fashion. But before you rush to recreate these dazzling dental accessories, it’s worth understanding both the appeal and the potential risks.
As someone passionate about dental health education, I want to guide you through this trend with both enthusiasm for self-expression and a healthy respect for your smile’s long-term wellbeing. Let’s explore how to safely bring a touch of celebrity sparkle to your teeth.
Current Celebrity Tooth Jewelry Trends
Crystal and Gem Accents
Single tooth gems have become a subtle yet eye-catching way for celebrities to add personality to their smiles. Some notable trendsetters include:
- Katy Perry has been spotted with a small diamond on her canine tooth, adding a subtle sparkle to her signature smile.
- Hailey Bieber occasionally sports a delicate crystal on her front tooth for special events and photo shoots.
- FKA Twigs has embraced multiple tiny gems arranged in artistic patterns across her teeth, creating a constellation-like effect.
- Billie Eilish made waves with her Swarovski crystal tooth accessories that complement her bold fashion choices.
According to celebrity dentist Dr. Kevin Williams of Beverly Hills Dental Aesthetics, “We’re seeing a preference for high-quality, ethically-sourced gems like diamonds and sapphires among A-listers. The placement is becoming more creative too, with some clients requesting specific patterns that have personal meaning.”
Gold and Metallic Grills
For a bolder statement, many artists opt for removable grills:
- Post Malone frequently showcases his diamond-encrusted gold grills at performances and red carpet events.
- Rihanna has been photographed wearing various styles of grills, from solid gold to diamond-studded designs.
- Rosalía incorporates gold grills into her artistic persona, often coordinating them with her elaborate manicures and jewelry.
- A$AP Rocky has helped popularize high-fashion grills, collaborating with jewelry designers to create custom pieces.
Celebrity jeweler Johnny Dang, known as the “Grill Master,” notes that “The trend has evolved from simple gold caps to intricate designs with mixed metals and precious stones. We’re creating wearable art that reflects the wearer’s personality.”
The Appeal of Tooth Jewelry
The attraction goes beyond simple aesthetics. Tooth jewelry offers:
- Temporary transformation: Unlike tattoos or piercings, many tooth accessories can be removed without permanent changes.
- Unexpected placement: In a world where ear, nose, and navel piercings have become commonplace, tooth jewelry offers a fresh canvas for self-expression.
- Cultural significance: For some artists, particularly in hip-hop culture, grills represent success and artistic identity.
- Photogenic quality: In our social media-driven world, the subtle sparkle of a tooth gem photographs beautifully and creates a memorable visual signature.
How Tooth Jewelry Is Applied Professionally
Understanding the professional application process helps explain why celebrity smiles maintain both health and beauty:
Tooth Gems
Professional application involves:
- Thorough cleaning of the tooth surface
- Mild etching with a dental-grade acid to create better adhesion
- Application of dental composite (similar to what’s used for tooth-colored fillings)
- Precise placement of the gem
- Curing with a special light to harden the bonding material
This process takes about 10-15 minutes per gem when performed by a dental professional.
Custom Grills
For removable grills, the process is more involved:
- Dental impressions are taken for a perfect fit
- Custom molds are created based on these impressions
- Precious metals are cast to the mold
- Gems or designs are added if desired
- Final fitting and adjustments ensure comfort and proper fit
Safety Considerations: The Professional Difference
What separates celebrity smiles from potentially harmful DIY attempts? Professional oversight and materials.
Dr. Sarah Johnson of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry explains: “Celebrities work with qualified dental professionals who understand how to apply these accessories without compromising enamel integrity or gum health. The materials used are biocompatible and the placement is strategic to avoid interfering with bite alignment.”
Potential Risks of Improper Application
DIY tooth jewelry kits have become widely available online, but they come with significant risks:
- Enamel damage: Improper etching or removal can permanently damage tooth enamel
- Gum irritation: Poorly placed gems can irritate gum tissue, leading to inflammation
- Bacterial traps: Improperly bonded accessories can trap bacteria, increasing decay risk
- Toxic materials: Non-dental adhesives can contain harmful chemicals not safe for oral use
- Choking hazards: Insecurely attached gems can dislodge and be accidentally swallowed
How to Safely Recreate Celebrity Tooth Jewelry Looks
If you’re inspired to try this trend, here’s how to do it safely:
1. Consult a Dental Professional
Schedule a consultation with a dentist who has experience with cosmetic dental accessories. They can:
- Evaluate your dental health to ensure you’re a good candidate
- Discuss placement options that won’t interfere with your bite
- Use proper dental-grade materials for safe application
According to the American Dental Association, any dental modification should be performed under professional supervision to minimize risks.
2. Consider Temporary Alternatives
For special occasions or photoshoots, consider:
- Snap-on grills: Custom-fit removable grills that don’t require adhesive
- Press-on gems: Temporary adhesive gems designed specifically for dental use
- Cosmetic dental films: Thin, removable covers that can create the appearance of tooth jewelry
These options let you experiment with the look without commitment.
3. Prioritize Quality Materials
If you proceed with semi-permanent tooth jewelry, insist on:
- Dental-grade composites for bonding
- High-quality gems without sharp edges
- Biocompatible metals if choosing a grill
4. Maintain Impeccable Oral Hygiene
With tooth accessories:
- Brush carefully around gems with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss daily, taking extra care around decorated teeth
- Consider an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria
- Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor for any issues
The Cost of Celebrity Smiles
Professional tooth jewelry application typically costs:
- Basic crystal gems: $50-$100 per tooth
- Premium gems (diamonds, sapphires): $200-$500 per tooth
- Custom designs: $300-$1,500 depending on complexity
- Custom grills: $500-$10,000+ depending on materials and design
While this exceeds the cost of DIY kits, it reflects the expertise, quality materials, and safety protocols that protect your dental health.
When to Remove Tooth Jewelry
Even when properly applied, tooth jewelry isn’t meant to be permanent. Consider removal:
- If you notice any irritation, pain, or changes in your bite
- If the gem becomes loose or damaged
- If you’re having difficulty keeping the area clean
- Before certain medical procedures (like MRIs)
Always have a professional remove bonded tooth gems to prevent enamel damage.
The Bottom Line: Expression Without Compromise
Tooth jewelry can be a fun, expressive addition to your smile when done correctly. The key difference between celebrity trends and potentially harmful attempts is professional application and oversight.
Your smile is both a personal statement and an important aspect of your health—it deserves the same level of professional care celebrities invest in theirs. By choosing qualified professionals and quality materials, you can safely explore this trend while protecting your dental health for years to come.
Have you tried tooth jewelry or are you considering it? Share your experience or questions in the comments below!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute dental advice. Always consult with a qualified dental professional before pursuing any cosmetic dental procedures.
