If you’ve noticed that some celebrities’ smiles are even more sparkly than normal, maybe they are sporting more than white teeth. Grills, a trend popularized by hip-hop and rap music artists, have become increasingly common in recent years. Expanded beyond the world of edgy music, athletes like Olympic swimmer Ryan Lochte have put the spotlight on this type of mouth jewelry. If you are considering wearing a grill yourself, you should first find out if it is a safe way to express yourself.
Grills are decorative covers that fit over the fronts of your teeth. They are typically made of gold, silver, or precious metals containing jewels. Most often, grills are removable so that you can choose when to wear it. Sometimes, however, people have gold crowns placed over their teeth to permanently look like a grill. Others have attempted to glue their grill onto their teeth, which can harm your teeth and gums. If you choose to get a grill made, be sure to avoid using non-precious metals that can lead to irritation or allergic reactions. Ask exactly what material was used to create your grill and consult your dentist about its safety.
If you do choose to wear a grill, make sure you brush and floss your teeth carefully. Food and debris can get caught between your teeth and the grill, which promotes bacteria buildup and acid formation. These can cause tooth decay, gum problems, and stinky breath. Also, try to limit the time you wear your grill. Remove it before eating and clean it every day to remove bacteria and debris. Ask your dentist for advice on the best way to clean it, because jewelry cleaners and other similar products are not recommended due to the dangers of ingesting them or irritating your mouth.
The smartest thing to do before getting a grill is to talk with your dentist. Make sure you understand any risks or things to watch out for, because you might decide that a trendy smile is not worth endangering your oral health.
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