💎 Are Tooth Gems Safe for Kids and Teens?

Influencers usually try to be as creative as possible while coming up with new trends that can then be followed by the rest of the world. For example, tooth gems – a concept that combines beauty and health into one – are one of the latest crazes among influencers and teens. However, this trend, which is mainly aimed at older kids, has somehow become younger children and tweens asking for this trendy accessory, and thus many parents are left to wonder: Is this cosmetic statement safe for developing smiles, or is it just too soon?

In Istanbul at Lema Dental Clinic, we specialize in advising families about the best, safest, and most professional techniques for creating beautiful smiles. A delicate polishing, aesthetic orthodontics, or even a Hollywood Smile are methods through which we achieve a win for health and aesthetics, in the long run. Don’t deprive your child of the spotlight—just do it the healthy way.

What Are Tooth Gems and Why Are They Trending?

They are the smallest decorative accessories that find a place on dental surfaces by using special dental glues. The procedure is non-invasive and does not involve any drilling; however, it is not risk-free. Mostly tooth front wearers can have these glittery accessories made and leave them there for weeks, and sometimes even months.

The trend was first adopted by such stars as Katy Perry and Hailey Bieber, and it didn’t take long for it to go viral on TikTok and Instagram. The idea of teens accessorizing their smiles is quite cool and is the main reason behind tooth gems being a trendy item in Gen Z (and even Gen Alpha) wardrobes. Nevertheless, the popularity of the gems is becoming a storm of young kids who want to be part of the trend; therefore, the question of timing and safety is being raised.

Are Tooth Gems Safe for Children and Teenagers?

Children’s and teenagers’ dentistry with strong, healthy teeth, gem tooth decorations may be relatively safe when a dental professional applies such. However, in the case of children and younger teens whose jaws and teeth are still developing, this is a completely different story. It is possible that the adhesive chosen for the purpose is too aggressive for the sensitive enamel, and even a minor surface bond may lead to the loss of enamel over time.

A large percentage of children who lack the necessary dental hygiene that is required to practice for the sake of their teeth gem, are present. Small pieces of food can get caught around the gem, and if you do not happen to brush with great care, it might cause decay, and even build-up of plaque on the gums. While older teenagers may fathom the dedication required, younger kids seldom do—thus, the risks are even greater here.

Potential Risks and Downsides to Consider

The major drawback of gems is that they come with quite a few risks, which are, in particular, associated with children and teenagers. One of the most worrying things about them is the issue of the outer layer of the tooth (called enamel), which might get damaged. Though no drilling is done, the material used for bonding can cause the thinning of enamel and can also leave some areas with little bumps due to the removal of the bonding material along with the gem.

What else? The gem can also increase the risk of caries. Since the space between the gem and the tooth surface is where bacteria are attracted more than anywhere else because it is very difficult to clean thoroughly, decay may appear there. Furthermore, if the gem drops off and a little boy decides to do it again by gluing it with some fixative taken from a shop (which is not uncommon), the tooth will be the one that suffers and becomes damaged.

Besides, there have also been some cases where allergic reactions to adhesive occurred or even choking caused by the tiny gem (especially with young kids). The decision is not easy to make, just because the gem may be small and seem harmless.

What Dentists Say About Cosmetic Tooth Accessories

Most pediatric dentists cannot stress enough how strongly they are against dental gems for kids. In their opinion, the combination of the fact that children’s teeth are growing together with even temporary changes to oral health is the main reason for their concern. A few dentists are of the opinion that teens should get braces only after all their wisdom teeth have come out and are healthy.

Furthermore, dentists are stating that neither at-home nor non-professional tooth gem application is a good idea. Although TikTok DIY kits may look straightforward and cheap, they very often use not safe materials or do the job with the wrong technique. In other words, if a teen is determined to get a gem, then it is highly recommended that the procedure be done by a professional dental clinic like Lema Dental Clinic, where it is safe and hygienic to carry out cosmetic procedures.

Age Guidelines and Safer Alternatives to Tooth Gems

So, what age is considered “safe”? The advice of most dental professionals is that tooth gems are the best holdback for people 16 years and beyond, and only after the dentist’s examination confirms that the teeth are strong and free of cavities.

Young kids and tweens who love arts and crafts can do it in a less risky way with the help of safe and removable alternatives. They can have shiny tooth polish, tooth gem temporary stickers, or glitter on their braces bands that can give them a fun and amusing look without any permanent consequences. These styles are beautiful, playful, age-appropriate, and do not damage enamel.

Moreover, parents can also use this moment to endorse self-expression through means that are still promoting dental health, such as bright-colored toothbrushes, retainers with characters, and customized floss picks.

FAQ: Tooth Gems for Kids and Teens