There are plenty of
horror stories telling the tale of a pierced tongue gone wrong. Infection, swelling,
and tooth damage are just a few of the dangerous side effects of oral piercing.
According to the Mayo
Clinic, some serious problems can occur with oral piercings. Of course, some
people never have an issue, but do you really want to take that chance?
Although it may seem
about as risky as getting your ears pierced, getting a hole in your tongue
could have some serious side effects.
Common Problems
Infection, nerve
damage, teeth and mouth injuries, swelling, periodontal disease, and
irreversible nerve damage are just a few of the problems you can develop if you
have your tongue, lip, or mouth pierced.
Those little barbells
and studs may make you look cool, but accidentally bite down on one and you may
have second thoughts about having your tongue pierced.
Infections: In a
survey of college Students in New York, six percent of those who had oral
piercings had a problem after the piercing. Some required a visit to the ER to
treat infections with antibiotics. In addition, you will be left with a scar
after you remove your stud or post. It may heal quickly, but you will be left
with scar tissue.
Tooth Chipping: In
one study, over half of the people who had long barbell piercings chipped their
teeth. Those in the study who wore them for four years or more had chipping on
their back teeth as well.
Gum Recession: Dentists
are now discovering that your gums in the front of your mouth are twice as
likely to recede after tongue piercing. Experts believe this is because the
barbell or stud is constantly being forced against your front teeth. If you
have gum recession due to oral piercings, your jawbone will reabsorb into your
body. Once the bone is gone, there is nothing to hold your teeth. You may love
the look of your pierced tongue, but it could eventually cause you to lose your
teeth.
Dental Restoration
Damage: If you have dental restorations, you are running the risk of damage.
Your beautiful porcelain veneers that your insurance didn’t cover could be
ruined with that gold barbell that you cannot get enough of.
If you insist on
wearing oral jewelry, dentists recommend wearing acrylic barbells or acrylic
balls to lessen the chance of tooth and gum damage.
Although lip, tongue
and cheek piercing is all the rage, take a moment to consider what it is doing
to the rest of your body. If you are thinking about having your tongue pierced,
you may want to reconsider. Losing your teeth over a pretty little piece of
jewelry really isn’t worth it.
Talk to a dentist who
can help you understand the dangers of oral piercings. It just may change your
mind. Call today.
