Looking back to ancient civilisations like Egypt and Rome, we see body piercings have always been around. They have been a form of expression. Nipples, navels, and of course, ears; all appear pierced in historical records.
In modern days we can say ear piercings are the most common type. But since the 80s, oral piercings have become increasingly popular, including the tongue, lips, and cheek piercings.
Are these piercings riskier than the ones on your ears? The answer is YES!
Unfortunately, if you’re a person who struggles with oral hygiene, oral piercings can become a hazard for you.
Why?
Consider that your mouth -moist, warm, and full of bacteria- is the perfect breeding ground for infections. That’s why you need to improve your oral hygiene and become meticulous about it.
Today, we bring you some tips on managing concerns about oral piercings.
Oral piercing complications: initial procedure
The riskiest part of getting an oral piercing is the clinical or initial procedure. This is where the professional would pierce your flesh to get the piece in. As with any surgical procedure (such as teeth extraction), the risk of infection in this part is high.
If the tools and the environment are not sterile, the chances of getting infected are high and life-threatening.
A non-treated infection in your mouth can swell your tongue and block your ability to breathe…
Definitely, a horrible way to die!
So, the first thing to consider is where and with whom we would get the oral piercing. Consider that the bacteria filtered by the piercing wound may reach your heart if not treated and create a disease called endocarditis.
Pain, bruising, and tenderness are usual feelings.
So, even if the procedure is correctly practised, you may still feel those. Just make sure you take good post-operatory care and hygiene, and it will disappear with time.
Another not uncommon feeling after the procedure is numbness. This feeling is usually temporary, and you should recover your sensitiveness. But if the piercer accidentally damages a nerve, you may experience permanently reduced ability to taste food. It can also affect the way you speak.
Those are not necessarily life-threatening issues, and many people accept them gladly to get their desired jewellery.
Now, let’s talk about bleeding.
Let’s be honest; you can’t get a wound in your body and not expect a little blood.
The issue is that blood vessels in your mouth are sensitive and may get punctured in the process. If this is the case, you may expect prolonged bleeding that may need medical attention.
The tissue in our mouth is especially difficult to heal. If you see the bleeding is abundant, don’t let it pass through… Go see a doctor!
Postoperative complications in oral piercing
The goal is that your new piercing heals well and that there are no further complications. To be sure of that, you should have meticulous oral hygiene and be mindful of the area around the wound.
Mouth rinse is definitely your best friend in this task. Make sure you use it after every meal.
Look out for swelling, chills, or a red-streaked appearance around the piercing. These are symptoms of infection, and we recommend you attend this oral piercing concern ASAP with a professional health provider.
Other than that, keeping your piercing clean should be enough to fully heal.
Long-term Complications of oral piercings
A common habit of people with oral piercings is “playing” with the piece in their mouths. This practice can easily injure your gums and damage other dental fillings or your teeth.
We know it’s hard to leave the piece alone, but you should do your best if you are concerned about oral piercing complications.
Allergic reactions to metal have been reported. These can show up as skin rashes or hypersensitivity and inflammation.
If you’re an allergic person, be mindful of reactions to the metal or other instruments. Let your piercing artist know you are an allergic person. And if you’re not, beware of any fuzzy feeling.
A tongue piercing can increase your saliva production. Excessive saliva can produce drooling and make speech difficult, but you may learn to manage this with time.
Swallowing the jewellery or even choking are real risks too!
Be sure to regularly check the tightness of your piercing to prevent it from becoming dislodged.
Already have an oral piercing?
Daily brushing and flossing will be determinants. More than ever. And if you notice the slightest sign of infection or have any further concerns about oral piercing, contact us now!
Dr Darshan Thumar is a skilled dentist in Endeavour Hills passionate about cosmetic and restorative dentistry. An accredited Invisalign provider, he holds a Fellowship in Orthodontics from the International Association of Orthodontics. Dr Darshan Thumar enjoys early intervention for kids, working with braces for teens and adults, and stays up-to-date with new developments.
