You’ve seen the photos. Maybe it was a blurry paparazzi shot or a high-def red carpet close-up from the Sinners promo tour, but there’s no denying that Michael B. Jordan grillz have become the internet’s latest hyper-fixation. It’s a vibe shift. For years, MBJ was the poster boy for "clean-cut luxury"—think sharp Dior suits, Piaget watches, and that classic, megawatt smile. But lately? Things have gotten a little more "downtown."
People are losing their minds over it. Honestly, it’s kinda fascinating how a little bit of precious metal over someone’s teeth can spark a thousand "is he okay?" versus "he's never looked better" debates on X (formerly Twitter). But let’s be real: this isn't just a random fashion choice. There’s a specific reason Michael B. Jordan started rocking the dental jewelry, and it has everything to do with his transition from Hollywood heartthrob to a gritty, genre-defying auteur.
The Sinners Effect: Why the Grillz Appeared Now
If you’re wondering where this look came from, look no further than his latest collaboration with Ryan Coogler. In the 2025 supernatural thriller Sinners, Jordan plays a dual role that requires a much darker, more weathered aesthetic than we’re used to seeing from the Creed star.
The Michael B. Jordan grillz aren't just for show; they're part of the "Smokestack Twins" persona. Specifically, fans noticed him sporting open-face gold grillz and "frames"—a style where the gold outlines the teeth rather than covering them completely. It’s a look that’s been popularized by Southern hip-hop culture for decades, but seeing it on a global A-lister at the Golden Globes or Critics Choice Awards feels different. It’s intentional.
"He’s leaning into a more experimental version of himself," says celebrity stylist Jason Bolden, who has worked closely with Jordan on his recent David Yurman campaigns. "It’s about showing evolution. You can wear high-jewelry brooches from Tiffany one day and a custom gold grill the next. It’s about the narrative."
What Kind of Grillz Does He Actually Wear?
Not all grillz are created equal. If you’re trying to replicate the look, you need to know the specifics. Jordan hasn't gone for the "slugs" style (solid blocks of diamonds that make it hard to speak). Instead, he’s opted for a more sophisticated, "quiet luxury" version of the trend.
- Open-Face Frames: These are essentially gold borders that go around the edge of the tooth. It allows his natural teeth to show through the middle.
- The Metal: Most experts speculate he’s wearing 18K yellow gold. It has that deep, rich hue that stands out against his skin tone without looking like cheap costume jewelry.
- Single Tooth Caps: On a few occasions, he’s been spotted with just one or two bottom caps. This is a classic "old school" look that feels more like a subtle nod to the culture rather than a full-blown costume.
Is it permanent? No. Despite some TikTok rumors claiming he got gold implants, these are definitely removable. He’s been seen without them at more formal David Yurman events where he's promoting the Chevron collection. It’s a "clip-on" situation, though "clip-on" feels like an insult for something that probably costs more than a mid-sized sedan.
The Cultural Weight of the Move
Let's talk about why this matters. When a Black actor of Jordan’s stature embraces grillz, it carries weight. For a long time, the "Hollywood path" for Black men involved distancing themselves from "street" aesthetics to appeal to broader audiences. Michael B. Jordan is at a point in his career—as a producer, director, and undisputed star—where he doesn't have to play that game anymore.
He’s following in the footsteps of guys like A$AP Rocky and Pharrell, who treated grillz as high art. By wearing Michael B. Jordan grillz on red carpets alongside Prada suits and Patek Philippe watches, he’s effectively bridge-building. He’s saying that hip-hop aesthetics and "The Vault" levels of luxury aren't mutually exclusive. They’re the same thing.
How Much Do They Actually Cost?
If you go to a place like Johnny Dang or Gabby Elan (the go-to jewelers for this kind of work), you aren't getting out for cheap. While you can find "Killmonger-inspired" sets on Etsy for $200, the real deal is a different story.
A custom-fit, 18K gold open-face set for the top and bottom can easily run between $5,000 and $15,000. If he decides to add VVS diamonds to those frames? You’re looking at $30,000+. Given that he was recently seen wearing a vintage Patek Philippe "Hour Glass" watch worth over $100,000 at the 2026 Golden Globes, a five-figure dental bill is basically pocket change for him.
Breaking Down the "Smokestack" Look
For the gear-heads and jewelry nerds, the "Smokestack" look from Sinners is the most interesting. In the film’s 1930s-style setting, these aren't just modern grillz—they’re styled to look like dental crowns or "bridge work" from that era.
It adds a layer of menace. It makes his smile look slightly "off" in a way that works perfectly for a horror-thriller. It’s a masterclass in using accessories to build a character. Most actors use a wig or a fake mustache; MBJ uses 18-karat gold.
Actionable Steps for the "Jordan Style"
If you’re feeling inspired by the Michael B. Jordan grillz and want to incorporate that edge into your own style, here is how to do it without looking like you’re wearing a Halloween costume:
- Start with "Frames": Avoid solid gold caps at first. Open-face frames are much more subtle and "fashion-forward." They allow you to talk more naturally and don't overwhelm your face.
- Match Your Metals: If you’re wearing gold in your mouth, your watch and rings should probably be gold (or at least two-toned). Mixing silver teeth with gold jewelry can look messy.
- Invest in a Professional Mold: Never, ever buy the "one size fits all" grillz from a mall kiosk. They can ruin your enamel and cause gum recession. Go to a legitimate jeweler who requires a dental mold.
- Keep the Rest Simple: Take a page from Jordan's book. If the teeth are the "loud" part of the outfit, keep the suit or the streetwear simple. Neutral colors like the burgundy Louis Vuitton suit he wore at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards allow the jewelry to pop without looking cluttered.
- Dental Hygiene is Non-Negotiable: You have to clean the grill and your teeth every single time you wear them. Bacteria loves to hide between the gold and your enamel. Use a soft cloth for the gold and stay on top of your flossing.
Michael B. Jordan has basically given us a blueprint for how to age into "cool." He’s not trying to look like a teenager; he’s taking elements of the culture he grew up in and elevating them to a luxury level. Whether you love the look or hate it, you have to admit: the man knows how to keep us talking.