Tooth Gems and Grills: Trendy or Risky?
Tooth gems and dental grills have quickly become a top fashion trend in 2025. From celebrities showing off sparkling smiles on Instagram to TikTok influencers embracing the look, it’s no surprise these accessories are gaining popularity. But behind the shine, real dental health risks are emerging.
As more people jump on this trend, dentists are seeing rising cases of chipped enamel, gum infections, and expensive dental repairs. Below, we’ll explore five hidden dangers of tooth gems and grills—and how you can avoid turning this style statement into a dental emergency.
What Are Tooth Gems and Dental Grills?
Tooth gems are small crystals or metal decorations that are attached to your teeth with adhesive for a decorative look. Dental grills (also called “grillz”) are removable metal covers, often made from gold or silver, worn over the teeth to create a flashy appearance.
Although they may seem harmless, both tooth gems and grills carry risks. Experts, including those at the Cleveland Clinic, warn that even professional applications can lead to dental complications if not cared for properly.
1. Enamel Damage
Your tooth enamel is your smile’s first line of defense—but it doesn’t regenerate once damaged. DIY tooth gem kits, especially those using non-approved adhesives, can erode enamel during application or removal.
Even professionally applied gems can cause enamel wear if they’re not monitored (Cleveland Clinic). Attempting to remove a gem yourself often leads to permanent enamel loss, heightened sensitivity, and long-term oral health issues.
2. Higher Risk of Cavities
Tooth gems and grills create small spaces where food, plaque, and bacteria can hide. These hard-to-clean areas increase the risk of decay forming beneath the surface of your teeth.
Dentists report more cavities and gum infections in people who wear grills regularly, especially when combined with poor brushing or failing to remove grills while eating. This bacteria buildup can quickly lead to serious dental problems.
3. Gum Irritation and Infection
Improperly fitted grills can irritate or even injure your gum tissue. Friction from the metal may lead to bleeding, swelling, and in some cases, gum recession. Low-quality grills made from questionable materials can also cause allergic reactions or chemical burns.
According to the Oral Health Foundation, bacteria trapped near the gumline by poorly made grills increase the risk of gum disease. Symptoms include inflamed gums, bad breath, and eventually tooth loss if untreated.
4. Chipped or Broken Teeth
Cracked or chipped teeth are a common problem linked to grills. If your grill doesn’t fit correctly, it can shift during normal speaking or eating. Biting down on hard metal, especially with an ill-fitting grill, puts both covered and neighboring teeth at risk.
The Cleveland Clinic notes that misaligned grills often result in structural damage requiring extensive dental treatment, including crowns, bonding, or root canals.
5. Bad Breath and Bacterial Growth
If not cleaned properly, grills and tooth gems can trap bacteria that lead to bad breath (halitosis). Food particles and bacteria trapped under grills create the perfect environment for odor-causing germs.
Colgate highlights that wearing grills overnight or skipping cleaning sessions allows bacteria to thrive, increasing the chance of oral infections and persistent bad breath.
How to Keep Your Smile Safe
Love the trend but want to protect your teeth? Follow these dentist-approved tips:
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Always consult a licensed dentist before applying any dental accessories.
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Avoid DIY kits, as over-the-counter adhesives aren’t safe for teeth.
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Remove grills before eating and sleeping to minimize bacterial buildup.
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Brush and floss carefully, focusing around gems and grills.
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Visit your dentist regularly to monitor your teeth and gums.
Final Thoughts
Tooth gems and grills may be stylish, but they’re not without risks. Enamel damage, gum disease, and infections can turn a simple trend into a serious dental issue if you’re not cautious.
At Emergency Dental of Dayton, we believe in helping patients explore cosmetic trends safely. If you’re considering tooth gems or grills—or already have them—our team can help protect your smile with professional guidance and care.
Book an appointment today or visit our blog page for more expert dental tips!
