Exact enamel-safe workflow trusted by pros: prep, etch, bond, place, cure, finish — with tools, timing, safety, and troubleshooting for long wear and photo-ready sparkle.
Lightly polish the target enamel to remove pellicle, rinse thoroughly, and air-dry until the surface is visibly dry — moisture is the #1 bond killer. Isolate with cotton rolls or dry-angles to maintain a dry field.
Apply etch per IFU (commonly ~15–30 seconds). Rinse thoroughly and air-dry to a uniform “frosty” enamel appearance — that micro-roughness is essential for micromechanical retention.
Apply a thin, even layer of bonding agent. Gently air-thin to remove pooling. Avoid soft tissue. Light cure if your agent requires it before adhesive placement.
Place a tiny dot of adhesive at the exact spot. Use the Wax Applicator to pick up the gem and seat with light, axial pressure. Confirm alignment to your facial midline.
Using a dental-style LED, cure per adhesive IFU (often ~10–20 seconds). Ensure energy reaches the edges to seal margins fully and improve wear time.
Inspect margins; remove any excess with a fine instrument. Provide aftercare: be gentle for 24 hours; avoid biting hard items on the gem; brush softly and floss beside the bond (don’t snag under the edge).
| Stage | Typical Range | Tool | Success Emphasis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prep | 1–3 min | Polish cup, air-water | Absolute dryness before etch |
| Etch | 15–30s | Etch (Pro Kit) | “Frosty” enamel = ready |
| Bond | 10–20s | Bonding agent | Thin film; avoid pooling |
| Adhesive | 10–20s | Adhesive + Wax Applicator | Micro-dot only |
| Light Cure | 10–20s/side | LED Curing Light | Edge-to-edge cure |
| Placement | Difficulty | Longevity |
|---|---|---|
| Upper lateral (smooth mid-facial) | ||
| Upper canine (convex) | ||
| Incisal edge areas |
Indicative only; technique, materials, and habits strongly affect results.
Tooth gems are decorative and, when applied properly, do not require drilling. Work on clean, healthy enamel with moisture control. Delay application near recent restorations or if there is active decay or unresolved sensitivity in the target area. For grinders or mouthguard wearers, choose lower-stress spots and smaller stones.
Likely excess adhesive or residual moisture. Blot with a micro-brush, re-dry the field, and reseat with a tiny adhesive dot.
Marginal ledge from excess adhesive. Carefully smooth the excess before cure, or finish post-cure with fine instruments.
Moisture contamination or under-cure. Re-etch briefly, ensure absolute dryness, reduce adhesive volume, and cure edge-to-edge.
Over-etch look. Follow manufacturer timing and avoid extended drying blasts directly on dentin/gingiva.
Yes — when placed and removed correctly with professional materials, they bond to enamel only and require no drilling.
Typically 3–12+ months, depending on placement, technique, and aftercare.
Pro Kit (etch, bond, glue), LED curing light, wax applicator, and your chosen gem(s).
Use a purpose-built removal tool to lift from an edge, then clean residual adhesive and lightly polish.
For 24 hours, avoid biting hard items on the gem and minimize staining foods/drinks; brush gently.
Reviewed for accuracy by David Hanna, RDH. For specific dental concerns, consult your licensed dental professional.
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