Tooth Gem Placement: Which Tooth and Where to Put It

Tooth Gem Placement: Which Tooth and Where to Put It

New to tooth gems? Start with what are tooth gems and how do they work.

Most people put their tooth gem on an upper canine or on the tooth next to a front tooth. That's where it shows when you smile. Always choose a flat part of a healthy tooth, in the middle or slightly toward your gum, and not close to the biting edge.

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The right spot makes your gem look good and helps it stay on longer. Below you'll read which tooth to pick, where exactly the gem goes and how to test the spot before you start.

Which tooth is best for a tooth gem?

  • The canine. The most popular spot. Your gem shows when you smile, but isn't right in the middle of your face. It looks playful and natural.
  • The tooth next to your front tooth. A subtle spot that shows well on almost everyone.
  • A front tooth. This is where your gem stands out most. Choose a small gem here, it looks classier than a big one.
  • Back teeth. Better not: your gem barely shows there and gets a lot of pressure when you chew.

Where on your tooth does the gem go?

  • On a flat part. A gem has a flat back. On a curved spot it doesn't sit fully against the tooth and comes off sooner.
  • Not close to the biting edge. When you bite, your gem gets too much pressure and friction there.
  • In the middle or slightly toward your gum. That's where your gem is safest and looks best in your smile.
  • On a healthy, smooth tooth. So not on a tooth with a cavity, a crack or a filling on the front.

Which gem fits which spot?

  • On a front tooth: a small clear gem like the Diamond or the Crystal AB. Small and clear looks best here.
  • On a canine: almost anything works, from one gem to a heart or a star.
  • Hearts and butterflies: these shapes have a direction. Place them straight on a flat part and check in the mirror that the point or the wings face the right way.
  • Several gems: keep them close together on one tooth, or spread them evenly over both sides.

More inspiration is in 12 tooth gem ideas.

How to test the spot before you start

  1. Smile in the mirror. See which teeth you show most when you smile and talk.
  2. Take a selfie. A photo shows the spot better than the mirror.
  3. Hold your gem against your tooth. Pick up your gem with the wax pencil and hold it against your dry tooth, still without Etch or Bond. This shows you if the spot and direction are right.
  4. Choose and start. Found the spot? Follow the steps in the instructions on how to apply tooth gems.

Placement mistakes to avoid

  • Putting a gem too close to the biting edge.
  • Putting a gem on a curved part of your tooth.
  • Choosing a gem that's too big for a small tooth.
  • Putting on too many gems at once, so it looks busy.
  • Touching the etched part of your tooth with your tongue or fingers.

More tips are in the most common mistakes and aftercare.

FAQ

What is the best tooth for a tooth gem?

For most people an upper canine or the tooth next to a front tooth. Your gem shows there and gets less pressure than close to the biting edge.

Can you put a tooth gem on a front tooth?

Yes. Choose a small gem and place it on a flat part, not close to the biting edge.

How do I make sure my gem is straight?

First hold your gem against your dry tooth and check it in the mirror or on a selfie. Looks good? Press it into the Bond and check once more before curing.

Put your gem in the perfect spot

In the Mix & Match Kit you choose your own gems and get everything to place them exactly right, with a wax pencil and cheek hook so you can see what you're doing. Painless, no drilling and no salon. More than 5,000 happy customers have tried it.

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