FAQ
💎 FAQ — How The Adhesion System Works
How does the gem actually stay on my tooth?
It's not just glue. The process creates microscopic texture on your enamel, fills it with a bonding adhesive, cures it solid, then builds a composite base your gem sits into. The result is a mechanical bond between multiple layers — not a surface-level stick.
Why does my tooth need to be etched first?
Etching creates tiny grooves in the enamel surface that the adhesive can grip onto. Without this step, there's nothing for the bond to lock into, which is the most common reason a gem doesn't last.
What's the difference between the bond and the flowable composite?
The bond (DX.BOND V) is the adhesive layer that interlocks with your etched enamel. The flowable composite (DX.Flow) is applied on top of that — it's what actually shapes around and holds your gem in place.
Why does everything need to be cured with the LED light?
Both the bond and the composite are light-cure materials. They stay soft and workable until exposed to the LED curing light, which hardens them almost instantly. Without curing, neither layer will set properly.
Is this the same process used in professional cosmetic dentistry?
Yes — etch, bond, cure is a standard principle in cosmetic and restorative dentistry. We've packaged the same logic into an at-home kit with clear instructions so you can do it safely yourself.
🦷 FAQ — Aftercare
Can I eat normally after getting my gem applied?
We recommend avoiding very hard, sticky, or crunchy foods for the first 24 hours while everything fully settles. After that, you can eat as you normally would.
Can I brush my teeth like normal?
Yes, brush as you normally would. Avoid scrubbing directly and aggressively over the gem itself, and steer clear of whitening toothpaste or hard-bristle brushes directly on the area, as these can wear down the surface over time.
Will my gem fall off if I bite into something hard?
It's possible. While the bond is designed to be durable, biting directly onto something very hard (ice, hard lollies, etc.) directly on the gem can dislodge it. Treat it the same way you'd treat a filling or veneer.
Can I still floss normally?
Yes — just be gentle around the gem area and avoid snapping the floss directly against it.
How do I clean around my gem?
Treat it the same as the rest of your teeth. Brush, floss, and rinse as normal — there's no special cleaning routine required.
Can I get my teeth professionally cleaned with the gem on?
Let your dental hygienist know you have a gem applied beforehand so they can clean around it carefully.
What factors can affect how long my gem lasts?
A few lifestyle and health factors can impact bond strength and retention over time, including:
- Smoking or vaping — repeated heat and chemical exposure can weaken the bond over time
- Frequent alcohol consumption — can affect bond durability with regular exposure
- Certain medications — some medications, including certain antidepressants, can cause dry mouth, which may affect how well the bond holds
- Pregnancy — hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect oral health and bonding conditions; we recommend speaking with your dentist before application if you're pregnant
- Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) — puts extra pressure directly on the gem and surrounding bond
- Existing dental conditions — enamel erosion, untreated decay, or other dental issues can affect how well the bond adheres
If any of these apply to you, your gem may require more frequent reapplication, and we recommend chatting with your dentist if you have any concerns specific to your oral health.
What should I avoid in the first few days?
Avoid biting hard objects directly on the gem, chewing ice, smoking or vaping where possible, and using whitening products directly over the area while everything fully settles in.
How will I know if something's wrong?
If you notice persistent sensitivity, irritation, or the gum feels loose, stop and reach out to us at help@mintgemz.com — we're happy to help you figure out next steps.
Is this safe to do at home?
Yes. Our Installation Kit uses the same medical-grade DX.BOND system trusted by professionals. As long as you follow the included instructions carefully, the process is designed to be done safely at home.
Will this damage my teeth?
The etching process creates a very minor, controlled change to the tooth's surface to help the bond adhere — this is the same principle used in professional cosmetic dentistry. It's considered low-risk when the included instructions are followed correctly, but as with any product applied directly to your teeth, there is some inherent risk. We recommend reading all instructions carefully before use and discontinuing if you experience any sensitivity or discomfort.
How long do the gems last?
With proper application and care, gems typically last several months. Lifespan depends on placement, diet, and oral habits.
Can I remove the gem myself?
We recommend having a dental professional remove the gem to avoid damaging your enamel. Avoid picking or forcing it off at home.
I have a methylmethacrylate allergy — can I still use this?
No. This product is not suitable for anyone with a known allergy to methylmethacrylate. Please consult a medical professional if you're unsure.
Do you accept returns?
For hygiene reasons, we're unable to accept returns or exchanges on any tooth gems or tooth gem kits. If your order arrives damaged or incorrect, contact us within 5 days of receiving your parcel. Read our full Refund Policy for complete details.
How do you handle my personal information?
We collect only what's needed to process your order and provide support — we never sell or share your data for marketing purposes. Read our full Privacy Policy for complete details on how your information is collected, used, and protected.
What are the terms when I place an order with Mintgemz?
By placing an order, you agree to our product use guidelines, pricing terms, and limitation of liability. Read our full Terms of Service for the complete details.
Why do I need to pay extra fees for orders shipping to the United States?
Due to current US import regulations, duties and import taxes apply to all shipments regardless of order value. We work with a compliance partner to calculate and collect these fees at checkout so you're not hit with unexpected charges on delivery.
Do I have to pay customs fees?
For most destinations, applicable duties and import taxes are calculated and included at checkout — so there are no surprise charges when your parcel arrives. If your country isn't covered by this at checkout, any duties or taxes imposed by your customs authority remain your responsibility.
How long will it take for my order to arrive?
Processing takes 1–3 business days (up to 14 for Installation Kits), and shipping times vary by destination — typically 2–5 days within Australia, and 5–30 days internationally depending on the service selected at checkout.
What if my order arrives damaged or incorrect?
Contact us within 5 days of receiving your parcel. All orders are photographed prior to dispatch as proof of contents.