The tooth gem procedure is fairly straightforward. You shouldn’t experience any pain before or after the jewel is placed. * Tooth prep. Before the procedure, your tooth enamel will be cleaned and prepped. An acid etch will be used to clean your tooth. * Composite application. A bonding agent and a composite (a resin material made for teeth) will then be applied to the area where your jewelry will be placed. * Jewelry placement. Next, a piercing expert or dentist will use instruments to secure the jewelry into the composite. * Setting. A special lamp cures (hardens) the composite. It only takes about 20 to 60 seconds or so for the jewel to set into the composite. * Aftercare. You should avoid brushing your teeth vigorously and eating spicy or sticky foods. It’s important to maintain proper oral hygiene after a tooth piercing. Also, try not to touch or play with the jewelry once it’s placed.