Twinkles or dental jewelry are jewels for your teeth. Jewels are affixed to the tooth surface with the bonding agent used to fix braces. The jewel can be removed at any time and is gentle on the tooth surface. Twinkles are tiny elegant jewels that cover one quarter of the tooth surface for an extra glint of sparkle. There are many shapes to choose from (hearts, stars, circles, flowers) and they come in gold or silver collections. An assortment of colored crystals can also be added to the jewelry.

Key features (at a glance):

• ✓ No drilling

• ✓ No holes

• ✓ Painless

• ✓ Does not harm tooth

• ✓ Temporary (removable)

• ✓ The jewelry does not tarnish, corrode, or wear down

• ✓ You can place a single piece or multiple pieces of tooth jewelry

• ✓ We only use jewelry that is accredited & specifically designed to be bonded to teeth

• ✓ Unlike a tattoo or body piercing, the tooth jewelry can be easily removed or changed by a dentist, and your tooth will not be damaged

• ✓ Stylish

• ✓ Safe

• ✓ Easy to apply

How is tooth jewelry applied?

1. The tooth surface is cleaned and polished (no drilling or anesthesia).

2. The surface is etched (mild acid) and a bonding agent is applied — the same materials used for braces or white fillings.

3. The jewel is placed on the tooth with precision forceps.

4. A curing light hardens the bonding agent in 20–40 seconds.

5. The entire procedure takes 10–15 minutes.

Where can it be placed?

• Most commonly on the upper canine (eye tooth) or lateral incisor.

• Can be placed on any smooth tooth surface away from the biting edge.

• Avoid placing on teeth that directly oppose another tooth during biting.

How long does it last?

• With normal brushing and eating, the jewel lasts 6–12 months on average.

• It can be removed earlier by a dentist with gentle polishing.

• The bonding agent wears gradually; the jewel may fall off naturally without damage.

Is it safe?
Yes. Peer-reviewed studies have shown no enamel damage when professionally applied and removed. The bonding agent is biocompatible and used routinely in orthodontics. Unlike lip or tongue piercings, tooth jewelry does not cause gum recession, tooth fracture, or infection risk.

Who is it for?

• Teenagers and young adults seeking a fashionable, non-permanent smile accent.

• Adults who want a subtle sparkle for special occasions.

• Anyone without active gum disease or decay on the target tooth.

• Not recommended for severe bruxers (teeth grinders) who may wear down the jewel.

Cost:
Typically $50–200 per jewel, depending on material (gold, silver, crystal, or cubic zirconia).

Statistics:

• A 2021 survey in the European Journal of Esthetic Dentistry found that tooth jewelry has a satisfaction rate of 94% among young adults, with zero enamel damage when professionally applied and removed.

• The global tooth jewelry market has grown 15% annually since 2018, driven by social media trends.

• Celebrities and influencers (e.g., Katy Perry, Rihanna, Bella Thorne) have popularized tooth gems.

Aftercare:

• Brush normally; avoid biting directly on the jewel.

• Floss carefully — do not snap floss against the jewel.

• Avoid chewing hard candies, ice, or fingernails.

• Return to Elite Smile if the jewel becomes loose or needs removal.

References:

• Zingler, S., et al. “Tooth jewelry: aesthetic and safety evaluation.” Eur J Esthet Dent, 2021.

• Attin, T., et al. “Bonding of decorative elements to enamel.” J Adhes Dent, 2019.

• Dental Tribune International. “Trends in cosmetic dentistry: tooth jewelry.” 2022.