Who should remove a tooth gem?
Removal of a tooth gem, or any leftover composite after a gem has fallen off, needs to be done by a licensed dental professional. That means a dentist or a hygienist.
I don't offer removals myself, and I always tell my customers to book in for a scale and polish with their dentist or hygienist. They recommend we get a scale and polish every 3-6 months anyway, so we're always due one. Just tie it in with your routine clean!
A word of warning
Be wary of any technician who does offer this service, and check they're qualified to do so. There is a real risk to your enamel if it's not done properly.
This is exactly why I refer my clients to a dental professional rather than doing it myself. Your enamel is permanent, and it's not worth risking for the sake of a convenient fix.
What if my gem has already fallen off?
If your gem has come off on its own, the tooth is usually fine, but sometimes a small amount of dental composite gets left behind on the surface. This is completely normal and nothing to worry about, it just needs a quick sort-out at your next scale and polish.
And honestly? You will be the only person who knows it's there. If you can't get straight to the dentist it's really not the end of the world, just mention it whenever you're next in for a clean.
When you do book in, just let them know you've got some dental composite that needs removing so they come prepared. It's a straightforward thing for them to deal with.
The short version
- Removal needs a licensed dental professional (dentist or hygienist)
- Book a scale and polish and tie it in with your routine clean
- Be wary of any technician offering removal, check their qualifications
- Don't try to pick or pry it off yourself
If you're unsure about anything, message me on WhatsApp and I'll point you in the right direction.
Ready for a new gem once the old one is gone? Book with me here, or check the FAQ on my homepage.