Frequently asked questions:
TOOTH GEMS

They are applied to the surface of your teeth with a dental adhesive system; very similar to how an orthodontic bracket is placed. No drilling or pain!

Tooth gems eventually fall off on their own. They can also easily be removed by your dentist or orthodontist at any point. Some practitioners are happy to remove gems for free during routine cleanings, while others charge for this service. You should never attempt to remove your own gems. If you need a dentist referral, feel free to ask.

Tooth gems are semi-permanent and last anywhere from 1 month to 2 years, sometimes longer! This fluctuates based on mouth acidity, hygiene, diet, etc. As long as you follow aftercare protocol, your gem is guaranteed for 30 days; if it falls out before this, I will replace it once for free (same gem on same tooth).

Yes! When properly placed, cared for, and removed, tooth gems are harmless to tooth enamel. No drilling, no holes, no pain, and no added maintenance beyond short-term aftercare. The service is fully reversible by your dentist or orthodontist. Only professional dental products are used in the tooth gem application process-- in fact, many clients who've had braces in the past recognize the tastes/smells of the products in use. Additionally, all gems are lead-free and will not cause harm if swallowed.

Crystals are lead-free glass, lab opals are silica and resin, and gold charms range from 18k – 24k white and yellow gold.

Whitening is OK but may weaken the gem's bond if whitening is very strong or frequent. You can trim this area out of your white strips or not put whitening gel on the teeth with gems, or go lightly in these areas. Keep in mind the area under the gems will not whiten.

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If you plan to whiten before you get your gems, it's best for gem longevity if you whiten two weeks in advance of your gem appointment. 

They can be placed around wire-style retainers, and most night guards, but not under Invisalign. Please bring your appliance with you to your appointment so we can be sure!

No. Unfortunately, gems can only be placed on natural teeth (enamel). 

Only clients 18+ are eligible to get tooth gems at Other Delights Tattoo, per Illinois law. Schedule permitting, clients 16+ may be eligible for in-home appointments for an extra fee, as long as a legal guardian is present.

Other Delights Tattoo welcomes you warmly! While IDs are required for service per Illinois law, YOU dictate your pronouns/how you'd like to be addressed. 

Other Delights is largely wheelchair-/assisted device-friendly, with an open path to the tooth gem area, and a large single occupancy restroom. Please note there is a small bump from the sidewalk into the shop at the entrance. There is currently no bathroom bar, but one is forthcoming.

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Clients typically lay on a dental chair for their service, but the process can be modified to be done wherever you're most comfortable.

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Other Delights typically has music on and may have incense burning, so please keep this in mind if you have sensory sensitivities. 

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Mobile services to accommodate accessibility needs are an option, schedule permitting.

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The gem process is usually fast, about 15 minutes end-to-end, though complex projects can take 30-60 minutes. It is painless, but may be triggering if you are dentist-wary. Want to know more about what your specific gemming process would look like, based on your design goals & access needs? Email me and I'll be happy to walk you through in detail.