Gold vs Silver Grillz UK – Which Should You Buy?
Choosing between gold and silver grillz is one of the first decisions you'll make when ordering custom grillz. Both look incredible — but they behave very differently in terms of durability, maintenance, price, and long-term wear.
This guide breaks down every key difference so you can make the right call for your budget, lifestyle, and style.
Quick Comparison
| Sterling Silver (925) | 10K Gold | 14K Gold | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | £ (most affordable) | ££ | £££ |
| Tarnishing | Tarnishes over time | Minimal | Very low |
| Durability | Good, but softer | Very good | Excellent |
| Maintenance | Daily cleaning needed | Weekly cleaning | Weekly cleaning |
| Biocompatibility | Can cause reactions in some | High | High |
| Best for | Occasional wear | Everyday wear | Long-term investment |
Sterling Silver Grillz (925)
Sterling silver grillz are made from 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals — usually copper — which strengthens the alloy. This is why you'll see "925" stamped on quality silver jewellery.
Pros
Affordable entry point. Silver grillz typically cost 30–50% less than equivalent 10K gold pieces, making them the go-to choice for first-time buyers or those who want multiple styles without a huge outlay.
Bright, eye-catching finish. Fresh silver has an intense, reflective shine that can actually rival white gold when properly polished. For a clean, modern aesthetic, silver delivers.
Highly customisable. Silver is easier to work with at a lower cost, which means more complex custom designs — intricate CAD work, coloured coatings, fancy shapes — tend to be more accessible in silver.
Cons
Tarnishes over time. This is the biggest practical difference. Silver reacts with oxygen, moisture, and acids from saliva, developing a dull grey or blackish patina. This isn't a sign of poor quality — it's just how silver behaves. With proper cleaning and storage (see our grillz cleaning guide), it's fully manageable.
Requires more maintenance. If you're not cleaning your silver grillz after every wear and storing them with an anti-tarnish strip, they'll lose their shine quickly.
Softer metal. Silver is more malleable than gold. With heavy daily use, the shape can shift slightly over time — which may affect the fit.
Potential sensitivity. Some people have sensitivities to the copper alloy content in 925 silver. This is relatively rare, but worth knowing if you have a history of metal sensitivities.
Gold Grillz (10K and 14K)
Gold has been used in dentistry for over a century — specifically because of how well it behaves in the mouth. It's resistant to corrosion, biocompatible, and long-lasting.
Understanding Gold Karats
- 10K gold — 41.7% pure gold. The most durable and scratch-resistant option. Ideal for everyday wear.
- 14K gold — 58.3% pure gold. Richer colour, slightly softer than 10K but still highly durable. The most popular choice for jewellery globally.
- 24K gold — 100% pure gold. Not suitable for grillz — too soft, will bend and lose shape.
At Ice Jeweller, we work with 10K and 14K solid gold in yellow, white, and rose gold finishes.
Pros
Doesn't tarnish. This is the headline advantage. Gold is chemically stable — it won't react with oxygen or saliva the way silver does. Your gold grillz will look the same in five years as they did on day one, provided you look after them.
Low maintenance. A weekly clean is all that's needed. No anti-tarnish strips, no daily polishing — just basic hygiene.
Biocompatible. Gold is one of the few metals considered safe for prolonged oral contact. This is why gold has been used in dental crowns and fillings for decades. It's unlikely to cause allergic reactions or irritation.
Holds its value. Gold retains intrinsic value in a way silver doesn't. A well-made pair of 14K gold grillz is genuinely an asset.
Cons
Higher upfront cost. Gold grillz are a bigger investment. If you're testing the waters with grillz for the first time, silver is a more sensible starting point.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Silver Grillz if:
- You're buying your first pair and want to try before investing more
- You want to wear them occasionally — events, shoots, performances
- You're after a bold, modern, icy aesthetic
- Budget is the priority right now
Choose Gold Grillz if:
- You plan to wear them regularly or daily
- You want the lowest-maintenance option
- You have any sensitivity to base metals
- You want something that holds value long-term
- You want yellow gold, rose gold, or white gold tones
What About Gold-Plated Silver Grillz?
You'll sometimes see "gold-plated" grillz advertised at very low prices. These are silver or base metal grillz with a thin layer of gold applied over the top.
The gold plating wears off over time — especially in the mouth where saliva, heat, and friction are constant factors. Once the plating wears through, you're left with the base metal underneath, which may tarnish or cause irritation.
At Ice Jeweller, all our gold grillz are solid gold — not plated. It's a more significant investment upfront, but the difference in longevity is substantial.
Price Guide (UK)
Custom grillz prices vary depending on the number of teeth, material, and stone setting. As a rough guide at Ice Jeweller:
- Sterling silver grillz — from £186
- 10K gold grillz — from £280
- 14K gold grillz — from £340
- Lab diamond or moissanite set — from £238 (silver) / from £300+ (gold)
All prices include a free dental impression kit sent to your door, so your grillz are custom-fitted to your exact teeth.
The Verdict
Neither gold nor silver is objectively better — it depends entirely on how you plan to wear your grillz and what your budget is.
If you're looking for an everyday grillz that requires minimal upkeep and lasts for years, 10K or 14K gold is the right call. If you want a striking, affordable option for occasional wear, 925 sterling silver delivers excellent value.
Not sure? Our team is always happy to advise. Contact us on WhatsApp and we'll help you choose the right material for your needs.
Ready to order your custom grillz? Ice Jeweller handcrafts bespoke grillz from your personal dental impression, delivered anywhere in the UK and worldwide.
