Tooth Gem Kit Manual

Thank you for buying the SelfGem DIY Tooth Gem Kit!

This step-by-step guide shows you how to apply a tooth gem at home yourself, and how to make it last as long as possible.

Read the whole manual first, then follow it step by step. Questions, comments or complaints? Feel free to email EMAIL_HOOK_SELFGEM.

Preparation Application Aftercare FAQ

Preparation

Before you start, it is very important that your teeth are thoroughly clean. Brush carefully and long enough so there is as little plaque as possible.

Why does this matter so much? If you skip this step, bacteria and plaque can build up where your tooth gem sits. That is not good for your tooth, and your tooth gem will come off sooner. So make sure your teeth are as clean as possible!

Note: how long your tooth gem lasts depends mostly on how you apply it and look after it. If a tooth gem comes off quickly, it is almost always because one step went slightly differently, such as a tooth that was not completely dry, too much glue or the lamp held too far away. So work calmly and precisely. Because the result depends so much on the application, we cannot guarantee how long your tooth gem will last.

Before you begin

Open the packaging and lay out all parts on a clean surface. Take at least 15 minutes. The more you rush, the bigger the chance it goes wrong. Keep a small cup of water ready too.

First put the cheek retractor in your mouth (if it fits well), so your teeth stay exposed and dry while you work. You can also, or additionally, use the cotton rolls: place a roll between your tooth and your lip so your lip does not touch the tooth.

Is your lip still touching the tooth? Use more pieces of cotton. If needed, place another cotton roll between your upper and lower teeth and bite down on it.

How to apply a tooth gem: step by step (use a mirror)

Step 1 – Apply the etchant (STEP 1 ETCH)

  • Dip an applicator into the STEP 1 ETCH bottle.
  • Rub the etchant for about 30 seconds on the spot where your tooth gem will go.
  • Then slightly moisten one end of a cotton roll and wipe the etchant completely off your tooth.
  • Dry your tooth well with the dry end of the roll.
  • Make sure your tooth is completely dry before you continue. Do not touch the spot with your fingers or tongue after this.

Step 2 – Apply the glue (STEP 2 BOND)

  • Take a new applicator (not the one from step 1).
  • Dip it into the STEP 2 BOND bottle.
  • Apply a thin layer of glue exactly where your tooth gem will go.

Note: do not use too much glue. The layer should not be much bigger than the tooth gem itself. Too much glue can make your tooth gem sit crooked or come off too soon. The bond can also become so strong that the grey base layer of the gem stays behind on your tooth.

Go straight on to steps 3 and 4.

Step 3 – Place the tooth gem

  • Pick up your tooth gem with the white wax pencil (jewel picker).
  • Place it in the middle of the glue. You can still nudge it a little with the wax pencil or the applicator.
  • Press it gently.

Note: ideally place your tooth gem in the middle of the tooth or slightly towards the gum, on a flat part (not a strongly curved side). Do not place it too close to the edge, and definitely not at the biting edge where your teeth meet. That spot gets more pressure when you eat, so the gem comes off sooner and the grey base layer can stay behind. Not sure where to put it? Read which tooth to put a tooth gem on.

Step 4 – Cure with the UV lamp

  • Happy with the position? Then take the UV lamp.
  • Important: hold the lamp as close to your tooth gem as you can, without touching it. The further away, the weaker the light. The glue will not cure properly and your tooth gem will come off sooner.
  • Shine the light directly on your tooth gem so the whole area is well lit.
  • Keep the lamp aimed at your tooth for 60 to 120 seconds. Ideally 30 seconds per side (top, bottom, left and right). Longer than 120 seconds is not needed.
  • Make sure no saliva or moisture gets on your tooth while curing.
  • Then gently rinse your mouth with a little water to remove any leftover Etch or Bond.

More about this step in how to cure tooth gems with UV light.

Aftercare: how to make your tooth gem last longer

  • Do not touch or play with your tooth gem at first.
  • Do not eat or drink anything (except water) and do not chew gum for at least 1 to 2 hours after applying.
  • Eat only soft food for the first 12 hours. More tips in can you eat with tooth gems.
  • Do not brush the tooth with your gem for 12 hours. Preferably do not use an electric toothbrush for the first 24 hours.
  • Try not to bite into hard food with that tooth. That helps your tooth gem last longer.
  • Do not smoke or vape for the first 12 hours.
  • Brush around your tooth gem with little pressure. If you use an electric toothbrush, use the gentlest setting.
  • Store Etch and Bond airtight (inner and outer cap), dark and cool. Run out of glue? Etch & Bond is also sold separately.

Application not working out, or does your tooth gem come off quickly? Check the most common mistakes.

Frequently asked questions about tooth gems

Are tooth gems permanent?

No, a tooth gem is temporary and comes off by itself after a while. On average a tooth gem lasts 2 to 3 months. Depending on your teeth, what you eat and how you apply it, that can range from about 3 weeks to a year or longer.

Can I have my tooth gem removed?

Yes, your dentist can remove it easily and safely. We advise against removing it yourself, because you could damage your tooth. If you still want to try, it is at your own risk: carefully use a piece of dental floss and never pry with anything sharp. More in how to remove tooth gems safely.

My tooth gem came off, but there is a grey layer on my tooth. What now?

That grey layer is the underside of the gem itself, not glue. It usually happens when there was too much glue around the tooth gem instead of only underneath it. It can also happen when the UV lamp was on for longer than 120 seconds. The bond is then so strong that the gem comes off before the grey layer does. More causes and tips in the most common mistakes.

Brushing too hard can also cause this, with a manual and an electric toothbrush. So always brush calmly and gently around your tooth gem, and only use an electric toothbrush on the lowest setting.

Want the grey layer gone? Preferably have your dentist do it. They can remove it safely and polish it off if needed. If you try it yourself anyway, be very careful and use a thin piece of dental floss.

Can I put a tooth gem on veneers?

No, the glue only bonds well to natural teeth. The kit is not suitable for crowns, bridges or veneers, because they have a different surface.

Is a tooth gem bad for my tooth?

No. Your tooth gem bonds to the outside of your enamel, just like a brace bracket, without drilling and without pain. More in are tooth gems bad for your teeth.

I am pregnant. Can I use the kit?

We advise against it during pregnancy. Before or after your pregnancy is no problem.

More questions? See the Tooth Gem FAQ. Ready for a new tooth gem? Build your next kit with the Mix & Match tooth gem kit.

Important disclaimer for using the Tooth Gem Kit

The Tooth Gem Kit is meant to decorate your teeth. Follow the instructions carefully so you do not hurt yourself. We do our best to make the kit safe and good, but we are not responsible for damage caused by incorrect use.

You use the kit at your own risk. Ask your dentist first whether your teeth and gums are healthy. By using the kit, you agree to this disclaimer.

This product is not suitable for babies and young children. Are you a teenager? Use the kit together with a parent or guardian.

Allergy or sensitivity: do not use the kit if you are allergic or sensitive to dental adhesives (acrylates/methacrylates), acids, solvents or any other substance in the kit. Any symptoms? Stop immediately, rinse your mouth well and contact your doctor.