If you’ve been tuned into music, fashion, or social media recently, you might have noticed a shining comeback in the spotlight: grills. These bedazzled dental accessories, once a prominent status symbol in early 2000s hip-hop, are making a resurgence. At the 2025 Met Gala, several artists sported grills on the red carpet, causing a stir on social platforms. The viral moment was set to “Grillz” by Nelly ft. Paul Wall, Ali & Gipp, a track that remains iconic even after 15 years, symbolizing a cultural era that seems to be echoing back.
Johnny Dang stands out as a leading figure in the jewelry realm, particularly in the world of grills. An immigrant from Vietnam, Dang’s journey from repairing jewelry in a flea market to establishing a designer jewelry empire is a testament to his skill, ambition, and impeccable timing. His clientele boasts music icons like Kanye West, Jay Z, Nicki Minaj, and Cardi B, among others. Collaborating with Houston rapper Paul Wall, Dang pioneered innovative grill designs, introducing custom features like diamond fangs, colored gems, and even glow-in-the-dark options, elevating grills to new heights.
However, Dang is not the sole influencer in this space. Jewelers like Eliantte, Ben Baller, Avianne & Co., and Iceman Nick also cater to high-profile clientele, each imprinting their unique style on their creations. For instance, Ben Baller’s work for artists like Drake and Kanye West has garnered attention, while Avianne & Co. from New York’s Diamond District has crafted pieces for artists such as 21 Savage and Lil Durk, including grills and iced-out pendants. Each jeweler brings a distinctive touch to their designs, acting as storytellers who create pieces reflecting an artist’s persona and success.
Grills, often associated with modern-day hip-hop culture, have a deeper historical root than commonly perceived. The practice of adorning teeth with metal dates back centuries, with civilizations like the Etruscans and Mayans using gold and other metals as symbols of wealth and status. While some myths, like the notion of Ancient Egyptians wearing grills, have been debunked, the allure of dental decoration as a sign of opulence persists, as seen in Katy Perry’s million-dollar grill in her 2014 music video.
The intertwining of grills and hip-hop culture runs deep, symbolizing identity, resilience, and style. Originating in the 1970s, gold teeth became a statement of confidence and empowerment for Black communities in New York facing socioeconomic challenges. Artists like Slick Rick and Flava Flav popularized grills in the ’80s and ’90s, turning them into style icons within the genre. The trend expanded geographically, with regional variations emerging in cities like Atlanta and Miami, where artists embraced grills as symbols of success and individuality.
While grills may raise concerns in certain settings, they are generally considered safe when worn responsibly and maintained properly, according to dental experts. As more than just a fashion accessory, grills embody resilience, creativity, and status, serving as potent symbols of cultural identity and achievement. The current resurgence of grills signifies more than a nostalgic trend revival—it underscores the enduring legacy of these pieces, which continue to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in hip-hop’s narrative of transformation and success.
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- [Underhill] Derek Carr gave out Christmas gifts today to his teammates. Olave and Shaheed got Rolexes. Mike Thomas is getting a gift too when Carr sees him. Other receivers got diamond chains. Offensive linemen got grills with a chest of steaks