If you’ve ever wondered whether a dental “grill” (also called grillz or gold teeth) can double as a retainer for your teeth, you’re not alone. With the growing popularity of custom mouth jewelry and flashy dental accessories, the lines can get blurry. Here’s the truth: while grillz can look great and add personality to your smile, they are not designed to function as retainers—and using them that way could actually cause harm.
Quick Picks: Best Choices for Grills and Retainers
- Best Overall Grillz: TOPGRILLZ 18K Gold Plated Custom Grillz Set – Standout shine, safe materials, and easy-to-fit design for style and comfort.
- Best Budget Retainer: Dental Duty Mouth Guard & Retainer – Affordable, dentist-approved, and simple to mold at home.
- Best Premium Custom Retainer: TeethNightGuard Custom Dental Retainer – Professionally made from your impressions, fits like a glove.
Buyer’s Guide: Grillz vs. Dental Retainers—What’s the Difference?
Before you buy, it’s important to know exactly what each device does and why they aren’t interchangeable:
- Dental Grills (Grillz): Decorative mouthpieces made from metal (often gold or silver), worn over the front teeth for fashion. Grillz are removable, not designed for medical or dental purposes, and do not keep teeth in place.
- Dental Retainers: Custom-made devices (usually clear plastic or wire) used after orthodontic treatment to hold your teeth in position. Designed by dentists for health—not for style.
- Fit and Safety: Retainers fit snugly and gently, supporting your bite. Grillz can fit loosely or tightly but offer no orthodontic benefit and may cause irritation or even tooth movement if worn improperly.
- Materials: Retainers are made from biocompatible, medical-grade materials. Grillz may contain metals not meant for long-term oral use.
- Purpose: Retainers = maintain tooth alignment. Grillz = style only.
Detailed Product Reviews: Top Grillz and Legitimate Retainers
TOPGRILLZ 18K Gold Plated Custom Grillz Set
Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a safe, stylish, easy-to-fit grill for parties, photos, or self-expression.
- Key Benefits:
- 18K gold-plated over brass for a bold look
- Comes with molding bars for a custom fit
- Fits most adult teeth
- Pros:
- Affordable, eye-catching style
- Easy to fit at home
- No dental appointment required
- Cons:
- Not meant for eating, sleeping, or extended wear
- Cannot function as a dental retainer
Final Verdict: Great for special occasions or a night out, but not for dental health. See price on Amazon
Dental Duty Mouth Guard & Retainer
Who it’s for: Anyone who needs a basic, affordable retainer to protect their teeth after braces or dental work.
- Key Benefits:
- Easy to mold at home in hot water
- Comfortable, BPA-free material
- Can be used for teeth grinding, sports, or as a retainer
- Pros:
- Multiple guards per pack
- Fits most mouths with simple instructions
- Great value for the price
- Cons:
- Not as durable as professional retainers
- Not custom-made by a dentist
Final Verdict: An excellent backup or starter retainer—safe and reliable. See on Amazon
TeethNightGuard Custom Dental Retainer
Who it’s for: Those who want a professional-grade, custom retainer without the dental office markup.
- Key Benefits:
- Order online, make your own impressions at home
- Professionally crafted from your molds
- Medical-grade, dentist-quality material
- Pros:
- Truly custom fit
- Long-lasting, comfortable
- Ideal for maintaining straight teeth
- Cons:
- Higher price than DIY boil-and-bite guards
- Wait time for shipping and lab work
Final Verdict: The closest thing to a dentist’s retainer—perfect for serious results. Check price on Amazon
Lureen Silver Tone Top & Bottom Grillz Set
Who it’s for: Fans of unique, affordable mouth jewelry who want something bold for parties or photos.
- Key Benefits:
- Silver-tone finish for extra shine
- Comes with molding bars for a better fit
- Removable, no dentist needed
- Pros:
- Fun for events and photos
- Easy to put on and remove
- Inexpensive way to try grillz
- Cons:
- Purely decorative—no dental support
- Do not use as a substitute for a retainer
Final Verdict: Go for style, not for straight teeth. See it on Amazon
J&S Dental Lab Custom Night Guard/Retainer
Who it’s for: People who want a pro-quality retainer custom-made for their teeth, shipped directly to their home.
- Key Benefits:
- Custom impressions for a perfect fit
- Made by dental lab professionals
- High-quality, durable materials
- Pros:
- Lasts longer than generic guards
- Ideal for post-braces retention
- Comes with storage case
- Cons:
- Price is higher than basic guards
- Shipping takes a bit longer
Final Verdict: Get real dental results with this pro-quality option. See details
Comparison Table: Grillz vs. Retainers
| Name | Type | Main Use | Custom Fit | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOPGRILLZ 18K Gold Plated | Grillz | Style/Fashion | Moldable | See on Amazon |
| Dental Duty Mouth Guard | Retainer/Guard | Orthodontic Retention | Boil-and-Bite | See on Amazon |
| TeethNightGuard Custom | Retainer | Professional Retention | Custom Lab Made | See on Amazon |
| Lureen Silver Grillz | Grillz | Fashion/Party | Moldable | See on Amazon |
| J&S Dental Lab Custom | Retainer | Dental Retention | Custom Lab Made | See on Amazon |
FAQ: Grillz and Dental Retainers
1. Can you use grillz instead of a dental retainer?
No—grillz are for decoration only. They don’t keep your teeth in position and can’t replace a real dental retainer.
2. What happens if I wear grillz too often?
Prolonged use can cause gum irritation, tooth movement, and even cavities. Only wear grillz for short periods and clean your teeth before and after.
3. Are custom grillz safer than cheap ones?
Custom grillz made by dental professionals are generally safer and use higher-quality materials, but still should not be worn as retainers.
4. What should I do if I lost my retainer?
Order a replacement retainer as soon as possible. The longer you go without one, the more likely your teeth will shift.
5. How do I clean grillz and retainers?
Use a soft brush and gentle soap for both. For retainers, special cleaning tablets are also helpful.
Conclusion: Can a Grill Be Used as a Retainer?
While grillz are great for self-expression and fashion, they do not—and cannot—take the place of a dental retainer. If you want to keep your teeth straight and healthy, always use a retainer made for that purpose. If you want to stand out at a party, pick grillz designed for fun. When in doubt, consult your dentist for advice on keeping your smile safe and looking its best!
Ready to show off your style or keep your teeth in line? Choose the right product for your needs from the options above and smile with confidence!