China’s Young Generation Turns to Tooth Tattoos

News Desk 

Beijing: A new trend among young people in China is turning heads—and teeth—as an increasing number of youth are opting for tattoos on their teeth, raising concerns among dental experts.

According to foreign media reports, while tattoos on the hands, waist, and neck are now seen as outdated, many young Chinese are embracing a fresh form of self-expression through tooth tattoos.

Unlike conventional tattoos, these designs are not applied directly onto natural teeth but onto dental crowns or caps produced through 3D printing technology. The customised caps—made from aerospace-grade materials—are then fitted over real teeth.

Dentists say the process, which costs around 2,000 yuan (approximately 280 U.S. dollars) per tooth, has become popular at dental clinics across the country. The designs often feature romantic symbols, partners’ names, lucky numbers, or motivational words.

However, dental experts warn that the trend could pose potential health risks if the crowns are poorly fitted or made from substandard materials. They also caution that, unlike skin tattoos, tooth tattoos cannot be removed once applied.

Dental experts have expressed concern over the trend, warning it could be harmful to dental health.

A dentist in Shanghai explained that engraving letters or designs on dental crowns weakens their strength and is therefore not advisable.