Tooth tattoos, also known as 'tattooth,' are a unique way to add some art to your smile. However, the term 'tattoo' is a bit misleading. Instead of inking your teeth, a dentist applies the design to a dental crown, which is then placed on your tooth. This means you need a crown to get a tooth tattoo. Historically, dental adornments are not new. Ancient cultures like the Maya and Japanese have decorated teeth with gemstones and metals. It's important to note that tattooing your actual teeth is unsafe and impractical due to the enamel protection. Instead, the design is applied to a crown made of ceramic or porcelain. To get a tooth tattoo, you need to visit a dentist, not a tattoo studio. Not all dentists offer this service, so you'll need to find one who does. After an oral exam to ensure you're a candidate, the dentist will prepare your tooth for a crown. The process involves minimal pain thanks to anesthetics. Aftercare is similar to any dental restoration: maintain good oral hygiene to prolong the crown's life, which typically lasts 10-15 years. If you ever want to remove the design, your dentist can do so with gentle grinding. Costs start around $150 for the design, excluding other dental procedures. While no clinical research confirms the safety of tooth tattoos, getting a crown from a licensed dentist is generally safe. Remember, the design is permanent but can be chipped if mistreated. Practicing good oral hygiene will help maintain your crown and its design.