What are tooth gems and how long do they last?

Tooth gems are small dental crystals, stones or pieces of dental jewelry that are bonded to the surface of a tooth using a specialised dental bonding system. They are available as crystals in different colours, sizes and shapes, as well as 18K or 22K gold dental jewelry. Opal can also be used as dental jewelry.

With professional application, the tooth is not drilled or ground. The tooth gem is bonded directly to the tooth surface using materials suitable for professional dental use.

How long tooth gems last varies from person to person. Professionally applied tooth gems can remain in place for several months and sometimes even several years. Retention depends on factors such as the quality of the application, the bonding system used, placement on the tooth, bite, oral hygiene, eating habits and aftercare. An exact lifespan can therefore never be guaranteed.

Many tooth gem professionals offer a short placement guarantee, for example around 2 weeks. This does not mean that a tooth gem is only expected to last two weeks; it provides reassurance if a correctly applied gem comes loose shortly after treatment.