🦷A new viral trend sweeping across China has left dental experts deeply concerned — Young Chinese are engraving motivational words and romantic symbols on their teeth using 3D-printed dental caps — but experts warn it could damage smiles permanently.
These “tooth tattoos” aren’t etched on natural enamel but on customised dental crowns — fitted over real teeth — crafted from aerospace-grade materials. The trend allows users to showcase engraved designs, words, or lucky numbers every time they smile.
💎 A Pricey Style Statement
The cosmetic caps, sold in several private clinics across China, cost around 2,000 yuan (≈ $280) each. Clinics in cities like Guangzhou, Foshan, and Shanghai are advertising the service as a “luxury dental fashion.”
Common engravings include:
- Romantic initials 💕
- Lucky numbers and zodiac symbols 🔢
- * Motivational phrases like “Get Rich,” “Stay Cool,” or “Forever Young” ✨
Some clinics even offer free engraving when customers purchase new crowns, fuelling the social-media frenzy.
⚠️ Dentists Issue Warnings
Dental professionals across China are urging caution.
A Shanghai-based dentist told local media that engraving designs weakens the crown’s structure, increasing the risk of cracks, fractures, or bite imbalance.
“Even minor grooves can reduce a crown’s durability and lead to dental problems later,” the expert warned.
Researchers have also cautioned that poorly fitted caps could cause gum irritation, enamel wear, or bacterial buildup if not maintained properly.
📱 Social Media Hype
Videos of glittering smiles engraved with words like “LOVE,” “9999,” and “POWER” have flooded Weibo and Douyin (Chinese TikTok).
While fans call it a “next-gen beauty trend,” critics argue it’s an expensive gimmick that risks dental health for viral fame.
The phrase “tooth tattoo” has already garnered millions of views online, making it one of the top lifestyle trends of 2025 in China.
🦷 Expert Verdict
Dental associations in Beijing and Shanghai are now calling for clearer regulations on cosmetic dental engraving. Experts suggest safer alternatives — like removable veneers or custom jewellery — instead of permanently altering dental crowns.
“It’s fun to express yourself,” said one dental researcher, “but your smile shouldn’t come at the cost of your teeth.”