It is one of the most common questions we get asked at Ice Bank Jewellers: "Are grillz bad for your teeth?" The short answer is: not if you wear them correctly. The longer answer involves understanding the difference between quality grillz, cheap grillz, and how you look after them. Let us break it down.
The Short Answer
High quality, well fitted grillz worn responsibly will not damage your teeth. The problems people associate with grillz, tooth decay, gum damage, enamel erosion, are almost always the result of poor quality materials, bad fit, or improper wear habits. Not grillz themselves.
What the Research Says
There is no clinical evidence that wearing well made, properly fitted grillz causes permanent dental damage. However, dentists do flag concerns around:
- Wearing grillz for extended periods without removing them
- Eating or drinking while wearing grillz
- Wearing grillz made from low quality or reactive metals
- Poor oral hygiene combined with grillz wear
The key word in all of these is behaviour, not the grillz themselves.
The Real Risks (and How to Avoid Them)
1. Bacteria Build Up
Grillz can trap food particles and bacteria against your teeth and gums if not cleaned properly. Over time, this can contribute to plaque build up and gum irritation, the same issues caused by any dental appliance worn without proper hygiene.
How to avoid it: Always brush and floss before putting grillz in, remove them before eating, and clean them thoroughly after every wear. See our full grillz cleaning guide.
2. Enamel Wear
Ill fitting grillz that rub against your teeth can cause enamel abrasion over time. This is why fit matters enormously. A custom moulded set sits flush against your teeth without friction, while a poorly made generic set can shift and grind.
How to avoid it: Always opt for custom fitted grillz made from a mould of your actual teeth. Premade grillz that do not fit properly are far more likely to cause issues.
3. Gum Irritation
Grillz that sit too low on the gumline, or are made from reactive metals, can irritate or inflame the gums. Cheap metals may also cause allergic reactions in some people.
How to avoid it: Choose grillz made from body safe metals: solid gold (9ct, 14ct, or 18ct), sterling silver, or platinum. Avoid mystery alloys or heavily plated pieces from unknown sources.
4. Tooth Movement
There is some concern that wearing tight fitting grillz for very long periods could exert pressure on teeth. This is largely theoretical for occasional wear, but worth noting for anyone considering wearing grillz all the time.
How to avoid it: Do not sleep in your grillz. Give your teeth regular breaks, especially if you wear them daily.
The Biggest Risk: Cheap Grillz
The most common cause of grillz related dental problems is not grillz. It is cheap grillz. Low cost grillz from unknown sellers are often poorly polished, which can cause irritation, discomfort, and plaque build up. That is why we ensure every set is finished to a consistently high standard.
Low cost grillz are also usually made from base metals that contain nickel, lead, or other reactive materials. These can cause:
- Allergic reactions and gum inflammation
- Metal toxicity with prolonged wear
- Rapid tarnishing that leaves residue on your teeth
- Poor fit that causes friction and enamel damage
Investing in quality grillz from a reputable UK jeweller like Ice Bank Jewellers is not just about aesthetics. It is about protecting your health.
How to Wear Grillz Safely
- Get a custom fit. Moulded to your teeth grillz sit correctly and do not shift or rub.
- Remove before eating or drinking (water is fine).
- Clean your teeth before putting grillz in every time.
- Clean your grillz after every wear.
- Do not sleep in them.
- Take regular breaks. Do not wear them all the time.
- See your dentist regularly and mention that you wear grillz.
Are Permanent Grillz Safe?
Permanent grillz, which are bonded to your teeth using dental cement, carry significantly higher risks, including tooth decay beneath the grillz, trapped bacteria, and difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene. If you are considering permanent grillz, we strongly recommend seeking advice and treatment from a qualified dental professional.
At Ice Bank Jewellers, we only create removable custom grillz, offering a safer alternative that provides the same custom fit and premium look while allowing you to maintain proper oral hygiene.
The Bottom Line
Grillz are not inherently bad for your teeth. Like any accessory worn close to the body, the risks come from poor quality, poor fit, and poor habits, not from grillz themselves. Choose quality materials, get a custom fit, follow good hygiene practices, and your grillz will be a safe and stunning addition to your look.
Shop Safe, Quality Grillz at Ice Bank Jewellers
All of our grillz are made from body safe metals and custom fitted to your teeth using our at home moulding kit. Browse our grillz collection and wear with confidence.
Want to know more? Read our guides on How to Care for Your Grillz, Types of Grillz, or Gold Grillz vs Silver Grillz.
"Quality grillz, a custom fit, and good hygiene are all it takes to wear safely and shine with confidence."
