On October 18, Camila Cabello took to her Instagram Stories to share a personal video of her precious new tooth.
In the second-long clip, Cabello quickly swipes his tongue across a shimmering heart-shaped toothstone before the video abruptly ends, leaving fans wondering if the new project is a good fit.
Most recently, the “Bam Bam” singer was spotted in France with her fellow L’Oréal Paris ambassadors, including the brand’s newest ambassador, Kendall Jenner. With her newly cropped hair styled into sharp, eyebrow-length bangs (akin to Julia Fox’s latest work), she could simply be experimenting with a new personal aesthetic—or teasing a new musical era.
Although her last studio album, Familia, was released in April 2022, Cabello hinted in an Instagram post that she is working on a new album this July.
Cabello shows his heart
The shiny Cabello gemstone, located on the tooth next to the two front teeth, is slightly larger in size and has a holographic silver color. No doubt contributing to the growing trend, she opted for an adorable heart shape. (Anyone else remember those puffy 3D earring stickers Claire used to sell?)
Cabello also ended the gemstone trend in late spring 2022, but on that particular occasion opted for micro diamonds.
The origins of the 90s trend
Teeth, caps, and grilles gained popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s and are closely associated with black culture and iconic rappers from the iconic decade. Jay-Z, Missy Elliott and countless other hip-hop icons have graced their smiles in one way or another throughout their careers.
For the first time in several years, stars such as Cabello and Billie Eilish (who arrived in Barbie at the film’s premiere, wearing quite a few silver-colored gemstones on her teeth), and influencers like Rosalía, Bella Hadid, Adwoa Aboah and FKA Twigs were her fans.
Tartars 101
Although caps and grills on teeth can often be removed as easily as other jewelry (such as earrings), there are some expert warnings regarding dental gemstones.
Semi-permanent gemstones, which typically last between two and four months, do not require drilling and are instead attached with a tooth-safe adhesive. However, once a gemstone falls off, it often leaves behind residue that should not be removed as it can harm the enamel.
Pro Tip: If you have tartar, know that it is recommended to have the remaining tartar removed professionally rather than doing it yourself.