Why Rihanna's Tooth Gems Are the Latest Smile Trend and What Dentists Want You to Know
Tooth gems, the sparkling dental accessories popularized by global celebrities like Rihanna, Katy Perry, and Dua Lipa, have become a major fashion statement among young Indians seeking to enhance their smiles. These small decorative crystals, diamonds, or metal studs are bonded to tooth surfaces using dental adhesives, offering a temporary and non-invasive way to stand out in a crowd. However, dental professionals are raising serious concerns about the negative impact of this trend on oral health and even vocal function.
The Hidden Dangers of Tooth Jewels
According to Dr. Bibhakar Ranjan, a Germany-based dentist and preventive oral health advocate, tooth gems act as magnets for plaque and bacteria, creating significant risks for dental health. These fashionable accessories can lead to enamel erosion, tooth decay, and gum irritation by creating hard-to-clean spots where harmful microorganisms accumulate. The bonding process itself requires etching or roughening the enamel, which permanently weakens the tooth's protective surface.
Dr. Ranjan explains that the lower front teeth are particularly vulnerable to plaque accumulation, and multiple tooth gems in this area can serve as plaque-retentive sites, dramatically increasing the risk of cavities and gingival inflammation. Once removed, the area where the gem was placed often becomes discolored or has weakened enamel, sometimes requiring cosmetic dental repair. Additionally, these accessories can chip, scratch, or break opposing teeth and cause sores on the inside of the lips or cheeks.
How Tooth Gems Affect Vocal Performance
Beyond dental concerns, tooth gems can significantly impact vocal function, particularly for singers and performers. Dr. Ranjan cites the example of legendary singer Freddie Mercury, who famously refused corrective surgery for his protruding upper incisors because he believed altering his oral anatomy would affect his vocal resonance and ability to reach higher octaves.
The voice relies heavily on muscle memory developed through years of training, and even minimal changes to tooth surfaces or tongue contact points can disrupt this learned coordination. While some individuals may adapt over time, others experience persistent discomfort, reduced control in higher registers, or changes in vocal clarity—especially under microphone amplification where subtle phonetic alterations become noticeable.
This is why vocal coaches and music-medicine specialists often advise musicians to avoid elective oral modifications unless medically necessary, particularly during active performance periods. The mouth functions not merely as an aesthetic feature but as a crucial instrument for vocal production.
Why You Should Approach Viral Trends with Caution
As tooth gem trends gain visibility through celebrity endorsements and social media platforms, dental professionals emphasize the importance of accurate information before making similar fashion choices. Dr. Ranjan advises that if someone chooses to get oral jewelry, it should always be placed by a qualified dentist with minimal size and number of accessories.
Meticulous oral hygiene and regular professional cleaning become absolutely essential for those who opt for tooth gems. However, the overarching message from dental experts is clear: fashion trends evolve rapidly, but tooth structure, gum health, and vocal function are lifelong assets that deserve protection over temporary style statements.
Young Indians embracing this trend should consider the long-term consequences of what appears to be a harmless fashion accessory. The temporary sparkle of tooth gems may come at the cost of permanent dental damage, making professional consultation and careful consideration essential before joining this celebrity-driven trend.
