When it comes to dentistry, we often think of routine cleanings, fillings, and braces, yet people of many cultures see teeth not only as just an instrument for biting or chewing food, but also as a reflection of a person’s overall status and wealth.
In today’s society, we view the “ideal” for teeth to be straight, white and perfectly shaped. People with “perfect” teeth are viewed as more successful, more charismatic and approachable.
As a result, attempts to improve, fix, or beautify teeth became a thriving practice that led to colorful dental traditions and innovations all over the globe. This is not the necessarily the case throughout the rest of the world, and beneath the surface of conventional oral care, a world of strange and peculiar trends exists.
In this article, we explore the unconventional side of oral health and share with you some of the cultural and unusual dental traditions and trends from around the globe.
Tooth Jewelry
While body jewelry has long been popular, tooth jewelry takes it to a whole new level. This trend involves the application of small diamonds or other small or Swarovski gems to the surface of teeth, creating a dazzling smile. The stones are affixed to the surface of a canine using dental adhesive to secure the gems in place.
This trend allows individuals to showcase their personality and style through their smiles. It may not be everyone's cup of tea, but for those seeking a unique form of self-expression, tooth jewelry provides an alternative to traditional accessories.
However, it's important to note that this trend is purely cosmetic and does not offer any dental health benefits. It's crucial to approach this trend with caution and consult with a dental professional before proceeding.
Grills
Grills are one of the most extravagant ways to dress up teeth. This accessory is more of a fashion statement than an actual device that can help teeth. Using gold, silver, or other precious metal, dentists shape the metal over the person’s teeth to create a decorative cover.
The rise in popularity of decorative grills can be attributed to the famous rappers, hip-hop fans and celebrities wearing them as part of their everyday fashion. The trend actually started with Nelly’s “Grillz”, a rap tribute to jeweled teeth featuring more than 70 close-up shots of gold and diamond-studded teeth that led to a cultural upheaval where many hip-hop fans, celebrities, and of course, rappers, began displaying grills as part of everyday fashion. So-called ‘grills’ have been seen on Kim Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, Lady Gaga and Rhianna.
However, grills aren’t a new phenomenon at all. They originated thousands of years ago as part of the dental traditions of Etruscans, who flourished between 200-800 BC. Rich females were the first to sport grills. Unlike today’s grills, Etruscan women paid a bigger price for the privilege. They often had their front teeth removed in order to insert a gold band holding replacement teeth. Dentists have no role in this fashion statement, but rather goldsmiths. While definitely eye-catching, the Estruscan grills didn’t do much in the biting and chewing department.
While grills have their roots in cosmetic dentistry, it's important to note that improper use or ill-fitting grills can lead to dental problems. Trend adopters should remove grillz before eating and carefully maintain dental hygiene to prevent potential problems. Brushing and flossing become extremely important, as food debris can accumulate in the metal fittings, causing acid reactions, plaque build-up and bad breath.
So, if you're considering joining the "grill gang," consult with a dental professional to ensure proper fit and maintenance.
Odd Ingredients Whitening Toothpastes
While teeth whitening is a common practice, some toothpaste brands have taken it to new heights with unconventional ingredients. From toothpaste infused with ingredients like charcoal, matcha, or even gold flakes, these products claim to provide unique benefits beyond traditional whitening toothpaste. Despite its counterintuitive black color, charcoal toothpaste enthusiasts believe that the activated charcoal can absorb stains and toxins, leaving teeth looking whiter.
However, it's important to approach such claims with skepticism. Dental professionals advise caution, as charcoal toothpaste can be abrasive and potentially harmful to tooth enamel. The effectiveness and safety of these ingredients may vary, and it's advisable to consult with a dentist before incorporating this trend into your oral care routine.
Yaeba, The Trend of Crooked Teeth
Crooked teeth, known as Yaeba in Japanese, are another counterculture idea that Japan continues following in their dental traditions. Unlike many other cultures paying money to have their teeth straightened, Japan celebrates Yaeba, or the beauty in imperfect teeth which is considered cute and childlike.To say Yaeba is popular in Japan is an understatement.
Men consider crooked teeth to be an endearing quality in the opposite sex, as it shows that a girl is not perfect. It is so popular in Japan that some Japanese women pay dentists to modify their straight teeth into something more crooked by placing plastic fronts on real teeth.
Some of us are ‘blessed’ with crooked teeth and do not find this trend very attractive. While seeking for professional solutions, ProVeneer may be a suitable cost-effective solution cosmetic solution, (depending on your condition) and can be performed by dentists in-practice easily.
The Rise of the London Gap
Similar to the Japanese Yaeba look, the London Gap is a dental trend that is popular in some circles. Inspired by International models Georgia May Jagger and Lara Stone, who sported the “London Look” that featured their gap-tooth prominently, many 20-something women rushed to enhance tooth gaps. This slight gap in between the top two front teeth, medically known as diastema, gives the impression of a childlike quirkiness.
Whereas a few years ago, patients wanted their gaps closed, many are now visiting their dentist in order to make their gap more prominent. Why do people find the gap beautiful? Gaps enhance the natural look, which many trendy people find more acceptable socially than an obviously fake enhancement job. For those who have a diastema, and are not trend followers, ProVeneer is one of the available solutions to close up the gap between the teeth.
The world of dentistry is not immune to bizarre trends and peculiar practices. These unconventional approaches have captured the imagination of individuals seeking unique ways to express themselves or enhance their oral health.
It's crucial to approach these trends with caution, considering their potential dental implications and consulting with dental professionals for guidance. Remember, oral health should always take precedence, and it's essential to prioritize the well-being of your teeth and gums when exploring unusual dental trends.
Before considering any procedure that can permanently alter your teeth, consult your trusted dentist if the procedure you want is safe, effective, and won’t subject you to unnecessary risks.
If improving your appearance is something you want to consider, your dentist can make the proper recommendations on how to enhance your smile or improve your bite. Ask them if they use ProVeneer, for example, which can be suitable for correcting a diastema or crocked teeth (cosmetically) without causing any irreversible changes to your natural teeth. This way, you can be assured that you will be treated with a high-quality affordable solution.
The world of dentistry is not immune to bizarre trends and weird practices. From tooth jewelry and grills to charcoal toothpaste, these unconventional approaches have captured the imagination of individuals seeking unique ways to express themselves or enhance their oral health.
While some trends may have limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness, before attempting any unusual practices it is essential to consult with dental professionals to ensure that you are not compromise your dental well-being. Remember, when it comes to oral health, sticking to your natural look, is what makes you truly beautiful.
Sources: https://number18dental.com/6-weirdest-teeth-trends/ https://yodoozy.com/7-weird-dental-trends-that-cultures-around-the-world-follow