Frequently Asked Questions

When professionally applied and properly cared for, tooth gems are generally considered low-risk and non-invasive.

Tooth gem retention varies by technique, placement, bite, client habits, and aftercare. With proper prep, bonding, moisture control, and curing, tooth gems can last for 3–6 months.

At Saltwater Smile Suite, we use professional grade materials designed for long-lasting wear while still being non-invasive and removable.

Tooth gems should always be professionally removed to help protect your enamel and keep your teeth healthy. Removal is quick, gentle, and completely painless.

During your appointment, we carefully remove the gem using professional dental instruments and polish away any remaining bonding material, leaving your tooth smooth and clean.

We do not recommend attempting to remove a tooth gem at home, as picking or pulling at it can damage the enamel.

Yes, all services require clients to be 14 years old or older. For those under 18, a parent/guardian must sign a consent form before treatment.

Yes, absolutely! Please do not pause your current oral home care routine.

Unfortunately we are unable to provide both treatments at the same time.

The whitening agents release oxygen, which prevents the dental adhesive for gems from curing and sticking properly. Therefore it is recommended to wait 1–2 weeks after whitening to place any tooth gems.

Results can last anywhere from several months to over a year depending on your lifestyle and oral habits. Coffee, tea, red wine, smoking, and certain foods can cause staining over time. We recommend occasional touch-ups and good oral hygiene to help maintain your brightest smile.

Some clients may experience temporary mild sensitivity, but our whitening product is specifically formulated to help reduce discomfort. The whitening gel includes desensitizing ingredients like potassium nitrate, and the patented warming mouthpiece helps prevent dehydration — a common cause of whitening sensitivity.

We also utilize a gingival block to protect the gum tissue while whitening.

Results vary based on your natural tooth shade and existing stains, but many clients see their teeth whiten by multiple shades in just one appointment. You can see whitening up to 12 shades in as little as 16–30 minutes of treatment time.

Yes, the whitening product we use is considered safe for crowns, veneers, bridges, and other dental restorations. It's important to know that whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, meaning existing crowns or veneers will not change their original color during treatment.

However, if your crowns and veneers are stained, whitening can lift the stain and return them to their original color.

If your restorations currently match your natural teeth and you whiten your surrounding enamel, the restorations may appear slightly darker afterward. We're happy to discuss this during your consultation to help you choose the best treatment plan and set realistic expectations.

Clients who are:

• Pregnant/breastfeeding
• Untreated cavities
• Severe sensitivity
• Gum disease
• Active cold sores/oral lesions at the time of treatment
• Under 16 years of age