Body piercings have become increasingly popular forms of self-expression, with oral piercings like lips, cheeks, and tongues gaining mainstream popularity – especially among teens and young adults. While these piercings can appear edgy and cool, they also come with some very real health risks and potential dental issues that are important to be aware of.
Common Types of Oral Piercings
Some of the most common types of oral piercings include:
•Lip piercings – These include the labret (lower lip), Madonna (outer upper lip), and less frequently the lowbret (bottom inner lip).
•Tongue piercings – Barbells or curved bars are inserted horizontally through the tongue, usually in the center area.
•Cheek piercings – Also called “dimple piercings,” small studs are placed through the cheek area.
•Frenulum piercings – These less common piercings involve the connective tissue under the tongue or lips.
Oral piercing procedures involve creating an opening using a hollow needle, then immediately inserting the jewelry. Sounds simple enough – but doing this inside the mouth creates an entryway for bacteria that can lead to multiple problems.
Oral Health Risks
In the short-term, you may experience issues like:
•Swelling and pain – The tongue in particular swells significantly after being pierced.
•Excessive drooling – From swelling and the constant motion of the tongue.
•Speech impediment – Healing piercings can make some words difficult to pronounce.
Some of the longer-term potential problems from oral piercings include:
Infection – Oral bacteria plus piercing trauma create prime conditions for infection. Signs include fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and a bad taste or odor. Abscesses are also possible.
Gingivitis/Periodontitis – The unnatural hole from the piercing allows plaque to accumulate more easily, leading to gum inflammation and even bone loss around tooth roots.
Damaged teeth – Tongue piercings in particular erode enamel on the inside of teeth from constant clacking of the metal stud. Severe cracks, chips, and sensitivity can result.
Hypersensitivity – Some individuals can develop allergic reactions to the piercing jewelry metals, leading to swelling, rashes, or breathing difficulties.
Excessive drooling – Jewelry irritation to salivary glands may cause drooling problems.
Nerve damage – Improperly positioned piercings can strike nerves, causing numbness or altered sensation.
Difficulty eating/chewing – Swelling and stiff tongue motions from piercings can make eating uncomfortable.
Is it Worth the Risk?
Beyond the oral health concerns, oral piercings are also linked to more serious issues like:
•Endocarditis – Bacteria from piercings can spread via the bloodstream and cause inflammation of the heart valves in some cases. This serious condition requires hospitalization and IV antibiotics.
•Brain abscess – Though rare, there are reports of sinus/brain abscesses forming as a result of oral piercings.
•Hepatitis or other bloodborne diseases – Unsterile piercing equipment raises risks.
These risks are no joke, which is why most dentists and physicians caution against getting oral piercings whenever possible.
If you do decide to get an oral piercing, be sure to go to an experienced, certified piercer who uses sterile techniques. Expect some swelling, drooling, and lisping during the healing period. Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash and take pain relievers as needed for discomfort. Watch closely for signs of infection.
Be sure to remove any mouth jewelry before medical/dental procedures to avoid excessive bleeding or aspiration risks. And always practice diligent oral hygiene to help prevent plaque buildup and gingivitis.
Ultimately, you’ll need to carefully weigh the potential consequences versus the aesthetic appeal of oral piercings. For many, the ongoing risks plus dental damage simply aren’t worth it. If you do proceed, be vigilant about maintaining your oral health through proper aftercare and professional cleanings. Your teeth will thank you!