Are Grillz Bad for Your Teeth? The Truth Explained

Grillz — also known as gold teeth, dental grillz, or custom grillz — have become one of the most iconic fashion statements of the past decade. From hip-hop artists to influencers and everyday style lovers, grillz have evolved from underground streetwear to high-end jewelry.

But there’s one big question people still ask:
👉 Are grillz bad for your teeth?

Let’s clear up the confusion and get to the real facts about how grillz affect your oral health, and what you can do to wear them safely.

 

What Are Grillz?

Grillz are removable covers designed to fit over your teeth. They’re usually made from gold, or silver, and can be plain or fully iced-out with diamonds and gemstones.

There are two main types:

• Custom grillz: Made using a mold of your teeth for a perfect fit.

• Pre-made grillz: Mass-produced, one-size-fits-all styles (usually cheaper, but less safe).

Custom-fitted grillz, like those made by professional jewelers, are designed with comfort and oral safety in mind — making them the best choice for long-term wear.

Are Grillz Bad for Your Teeth?

The short answer is: No — not if you wear them the right way.

Grillz themselves don’t damage teeth. The problems come from poor hygiene, cheap materials, or improper fitting. Here’s what you should know:

✅ When Grillz Are Safe:

• They fit perfectly: Custom grillz don’t rub or press against your gums.

• They’re made from quality metals: Pure gold or sterling silver grillz are safe for your mouth.

• You clean them properly: Cleaning your grillz after each use prevents bacteria growth.

• You wear them responsibly: Only wear grillz for short periods — not while eating or sleeping.

⚠️ When Grillz Can Cause Problems:

• Cheap or fake materials: Some low-cost grillz contain nickel or other metals that can irritate your gums.

• Poor fit: One-size-fits-all grillz trap food and plaque between your teeth and the metal.

• Bad hygiene: Not cleaning your grillz or brushing your teeth regularly can cause decay, gum irritation, and bad breath.

• 24/7 wear: Long-term wear prevents saliva from cleaning your teeth naturally, increasing the risk of damage.

How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy While Wearing Grillz

If you love rocking grillz, you can absolutely do it without hurting your teeth — it just takes a bit of care. Follow these pro tips:

1. 🧼 Clean your grillz every time you wear them.
   Rinse with warm water and use a soft toothbrush to remove bacteria and residue.

2. 🍽️ Avoid eating with grillz on.
   Food particles can get trapped, leading to plaque buildup and tooth decay.

3. 🦷 Brush and floss daily.
   Keep your teeth clean and healthy underneath your grillz.

4. 🌙 Don’t sleep in your grillz.
   Let your teeth “breathe” overnight and prevent moisture buildup.

5. 💧 Store them properly.
   Keep your grillz dry in a clean case when not in use.

6. 🪞 Visit your dentist regularly.
   Let your dentist know you wear grillz — they can check for any early signs of irritation or decay.

Custom vs. Cheap Grillz: Why It Matters

The biggest difference between safe grillz and harmful grillz usually comes down to one thing — fit and quality.

Custom grillz are molded to your exact teeth shape, which means:

• They’re more comfortable

• They don’t trap food or bacteria

• They don’t scratch enamel or gums

• They’re made from pure, safe metals

On the other hand, cheap, mass-produced grillz are often made with mixed alloys that can irritate your gums or cause allergic reactions. 

If you’re investing in your smile, it’s always worth getting custom-made grillz from a trusted jeweler (Green Skull Grillz) who uses safe materials and precise dental molds.

How Long Can You Wear Grillz?

There’s no strict time limit, but we recommend:

A few hours at a time, ideally for special occasions or short events.

Removing them before eating, drinking (except water), or sleeping.

Your mouth naturally produces bacteria and saliva throughout the day. Keeping grillz on too long can trap moisture and food debris, which eventually leads to bad breath or gum issues.

Can Grillz Damage Your Teeth Permanently?

Only if they’re poorly made, dirty, or worn too long. The metal itself won’t harm enamel, but improper care can cause secondary issues like:

• Tooth decay

• Gum inflammation

• Plaque buildup

• Bad breath

By cleaning your grillz and giving your teeth regular breaks, you’ll completely avoid these problems.

The Bottom Line: Are Grillz Bad for Your Teeth?

Grillz aren’t bad for your teeth — when done right.

They’re safe, stylish, and a form of self-expression that’s here to stay. The key is choosing high-quality materials, getting a proper fit, and keeping your mouth clean.

Think of grillz like any other luxury accessory:
💎 Treat them with care, and they’ll make you shine.
🦷 Neglect them, and they could cause problems.

So if you’re thinking about getting your first set of custom grillz, make sure they’re made by us as we understand both design and dental health. A well-crafted pair will keep your smile healthy — and your look unforgettable.