Jewel-Encrusted Teeth: Good Idea or Bad?

We all want sparkly, beautiful teeth. But how far would you go to get them? If you’re a celebrity like Kim Kardashian or money is simply no object, you may opt for the newest wave of those once-popular tooth "grills."

This generation’s tooth jewelry comes from a woman by the name of Dolly Cohen, a Paris-based designer who customizes each grill she creates. So far, her pieces have adorned the mouths of everyone from Rihanna to Madonna, and now Kardashian, who recently posted an Instagram photo of her bottom teeth encrusted in genuine diamonds.

So, what is the appeal of tooth jewelry, and is it even a good idea? Wexford, Pennsylvania, cosmetic dentist Dr. Alexandra George says there are easier and safer ways to get a sparkling smile.

"If your teeth are lacking the healthy, beautiful color you desire, there are many safer options to achieve the look you want than gluing diamonds to them," says George. "You can start by bleaching your teeth with a professional whitening, and if you still aren’t happy with the results, there are other more permanent options like veneers."

Veneers are thin sheets of porcelain that are glued to the teeth and can change not just their color, but also the shape.

"Veneers are great options if you have some discoloration and maybe even a little bit of chipping or gapping between the teeth," George says. "They also won’t damage your teeth - something that grills can very easily do."

So, that’s a no on the grills then?

"Definitely no."