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Are you considering an oral piercing?
A tongue or lip piercing certainly offers a striking look and is a form of self-expression for many. However, such piercings come with serious risks for your dental health. Understanding these risks is key to making an informed choice and knowing how to best protect your smile if you do decide to get a piercing.
Here’s what you need to know.
Immediate Risks After Piercing
Many people don’t realize that oral piercings can cause serious short-term issues. Swelling, bleeding, and difficulty speaking or chewing are common right after getting a piercing. Ice and over-the-counter pain medicine can help manage discomfort. Properly cleaning the piercing can help it heal, and many of these symptoms go away after healing. But in rare cases, severe swelling of the tongue may require emergency care.
Long-Term Dental Concerns
Once healed, piercings can still lead to problems. Jewelry can rub against gums, causing recession and sensitivity. When piercings hit against enamel repeatedly, they may wear it down, or worse yet, crack it. These issues often require restorative dental work (like fillings or crowns) down the line.
Piercings and Bad Breath
Another overlooked issue is halitosis. Jewelry creates small spaces that trap food particles and bacteria, making it harder to maintain fresh breath. Even with daily brushing and rinsing, it’s difficult to fully clean around a piercing.
Read more: Toothbrush 101: How Often You Should Replace Yours for a Healthier Smile
Protect Your Smile with Preventive Dentistry in Richmond
If you love the look but want to avoid the risks, consider removable jewelry or decorative alternatives that don’t involve piercing tissue. Your dentist can help you weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Whether you have an oral piercing or not, our professional dentist in Richmond, MI at Dr. Julie Cichoracki, is here to care for your smile. We offer complete preventive dental care in Richmond, and may advise more frequent cleanings to mitigate the risks associated with piercings.
Thinking about a piercing or already have one? Contact us to schedule a consultation today to check your oral health and explore safe, long-term options for protecting your smile.
