Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Tooth Gem Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal Tooth Gem | $50 – $100 | $0 – $0 |
| Swarovski Tooth Gem | $75 – $150 | $0 – $0 |
| Gold or Diamond Tooth Gem | $100 – $250 | $0 – $0 |
CPT/ADA Code: D9999
What Affects the Cost
- Geographic location (urban areas cost 20-40% more)
- Dentist experience and specialization
- Type of dental insurance plan (PPO vs HMO/DHMO)
- Whether the procedure is classified as preventive, basic, or major
- Lab and material costs
- Number of teeth or surfaces involved
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Cosmetic — not covered by dental insurance
Most dental PPO plans have an annual maximum of $1,000-$2,500. Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays) is typically covered at 100%. Basic procedures (fillings, simple extractions) at 70-80%. Major procedures (crowns, bridges, implants) at 50%. Many plans have a 6-12 month waiting period for major work.
How to Save Money
- Dental schools offer procedures at 50-70% discount
- Dental discount plans save 20-50% for $80-$200/year
- Ask about payment plans — many dentists offer CareCredit 0% financing
- Community health centers provide sliding-scale pricing
- Get quotes from 2-3 dentists in your area
- Consider dental tourism for expensive procedures
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
When applied by a dental professional, tooth gems are safe. They are bonded to the enamel surface similar to orthodontic brackets and do not damage the tooth.
Professionally applied tooth gems last 6 months to 2 years. They can fall off sooner if you eat hard or sticky foods or grind your teeth.
Yes, a dentist can safely remove a tooth gem by gently popping it off and polishing away the remaining bonding material without damaging enamel.