Tooth Gem, a Big Hit with the MZ Generation: How Is It Applied and How Is It Removed? Seoul National University Entrance Dental Clinic

Hello,

This is Director Park Jeong-gi from Remember Dental Clinic at Seoul National University Entrance.

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Today, have you ever heard of the 'Tooth Gem' that is gaining popularity among young people these days?

Today, I’d like to look at what it is,

and especially talk about safe removal methods for those who have already had the procedure.

What is a Tooth Gem?

2025.03.07

It is a small decoration attached to the surface of a tooth,

and it is made from various materials such as

crystal, Swarovski stones, gold, and silver.

It is mainly attached to front teeth or canines for aesthetic purposes,

and has recently become very popular

thanks to social media and celebrities.

It is attached to the tooth surface

using a special adhesive,

and can be worn for the desired period.

In general, it lasts from a few weeks to a few months,

but the duration may vary

depending on care methods and eating habits.

At Seoul National University Entrance Dental Clinic,

here is one interesting fact for you:

Although this may seem like a recent trend,

it was actually a fashion item that was popular

back in the 1990s as well.^^

(It was especially popular among hip-hop artists.)

As you may expect, there are many different types and designs,

including cute shapes like stars, hearts, and moons,

holographic materials are also possible, and there are

metal and crystal designs that give a more luxurious feel.

Because of that, they are often used when people want to express their individuality

or on flashy stages.

If you want to remove a Tooth Gem now?

2025.03.07

After enjoying it for a certain period,

you may want to return to your original look.

At Seoul National University Entrance Dental Clinic,

we often see patients who come in because they do not know how to remove it properly,

or because they are unsure what to do about the rough surface left behind after removal.

Fortunately, the removal method is

relatively simple.

First, we check the condition of the Tooth Gem and its attachment position.

Then, using orthodontic bracket removal tools or

various specialized instruments used in orthodontic treatment,

we apply gentle force

to softly break the adhesive bond.

You can think of it as being similar to

removing brackets after orthodontic treatment is finished.

After that,

we carefully remove the adhesive left on the surface

using a bur or polishing tool.

Finally, we gently polish and buff the tooth surface,

which may have become rough, to restore it to its original state.

Then, as shown in the photos from Seoul National University Entrance Dental Clinic,

it can return to a clean, original condition.

2025.03.07

You may worry that it will take a long time,

but in most cases it only takes about 5 to 10 minutes,

and there is almost no pain.

Can I do it myself at home?

Sometimes, people want to remove it themselves at home

to save money or because they do not have time.

However, at Seoul National University Entrance Dental Clinic,

we do not recommend this because there is a risk of damaging the tooth.

Using professional tools and techniques,

it should be removed safely with only minimal pressure on the tooth

and then smoothed properly,

but if you try to forcibly pull it off at home

with tweezers or fingernails,

the enamel may come off as well or

the surface may be damaged.

Such damage can increase tooth discoloration, sensitivity,

and even the risk of cavities,

and may cause prosthetics to come off.

Also, if adhesive remains,

it can create an environment where plaque easily accumulates around it,

so at Seoul National University Entrance Dental Clinic,

we recommend receiving the procedure from a professional.

Aftercare

You may be wondering how to care for it afterward.

In fact, no special care is needed.

However, maintaining oral hygiene

is still essential!

• Regular brushing and flossing

• Regular checkups and scaling every 6 months

• Using toothpaste containing fluoride

A Tooth Gem is a fun way to express individuality,

and it has the advantage of being easy to remove whenever you want,

which is why it is popular among the MZ generation and celebrities.

Once a tooth is gone, it does not grow back,

so when removing it,

please be sure to have it done at a professional medical facility.

Thank you for reading.

This was Park Jeong-gi, the chief director of Remember Dental Clinic.

Treatment period: 2025.03.07

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