CANBERRA — Tooth gems, a trendy form of dental jewellery, are gaining popularity among young Australians, raising questions about safety and dental health.
Jas, 23, discovered tooth gems at the Spilt Milk music festival in Canberra in December. She now sports a silver diamond on her left canine and is considering adding a second. “I really came to like it,” she said, noting that some of her friends are also interested.
The festival stall, run by Canberra-based technician Ana Mihov of Wicked Grins, saw wait times of up to three hours, with Mihov applying gems to around 55 customers that day. Each application took five to ten minutes, and supplies ran out by 9 p.m.
Mihov first encountered tooth gems in London two years ago and trained in Melbourne to become a certified technician. She credits social media for the recent surge in popularity, pointing to platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where tooth gem content has millions of views.
Dental experts urge caution. Dr. Evram Narouz, a Sydney dentist, said tooth gems are “not necessarily harmful if applied by a clinician familiar with bonding protocols and safety procedures.” He warned that unqualified application can lead to gum irritation, plaque buildup, or even tooth demineralisation.
Australian Dental Association president Dr. Christopher Sanzaro echoed these concerns, advising consumers to consult their dentist. Improperly adhered gems may cause chipping or cracking if chewed on, and removal by untrained individuals can be dangerous and costly.
Despite these risks, tooth gems’ semi-permanent nature is part of their appeal. Technicians say they typically last three months to a year, with smaller gems lasting longer. Clients can choose from subtle designs to bold patterns, and costs in Australia range from $70 for Swarovski crystals to $140–$150 for solid gold pieces.
While some dental practices offer tooth gems, most are applied in beauty parlours, tattoo studios, pop-up events, or markets, where quality and training standards vary. Both Mihov and Sydney-based technician Ashlin Carlisle caution against DIY application kits, which can be hazardous if used incorrectly.
Tooth gems are attracting mainly women in their early to mid-20s, who see them as a flexible, less permanent alternative to tattoos or other beauty treatments.
Mihov stressed the need for proper regulation, saying, “I don’t want people to be turned off because of one bad technician.” She continues to run her business while completing a master’s in public health.