Oral piercings, such as those on the tongue, lip, or cheek, have become a trendy form of self-expression. However, many people jump into getting these piercings without fully understanding the risks or how to properly care for them. This leads to complications, some of which can cause long-term damage to your oral health. In this post, we’ll cover four critical mistakes that people often make when getting an oral piercing and how to avoid them. By being informed, you can minimize risks.
Choosing an Inexperienced Piercer
One of the most common mistakes when getting an oral piercing is not researching the piercer’s qualifications. Many people make the mistake of opting for a piercer who is cheaper or more convenient, but this can lead to a host of problems. An experienced piercer who uses sterile techniques and has a deep understanding of oral anatomy is crucial to avoiding nerve damage, improper placement, and infection.
The mouth is a delicate area filled with nerves and blood vessels, and an unqualified piercer might hit a nerve, causing permanent numbness or altered taste sensations. Improper placement can also cause more harm than good. For example, a poorly placed tongue piercing can constantly rub against your teeth, leading to chipping, gum damage, or even tooth loss in extreme cases.
To ensure you get the best care, look for a licensed piercer who specializes in oral piercings. Check for online reviews or ask for recommendations from friends who’ve had successful experiences. A professional piercer will also take time to explain the risks and provide detailed aftercare instructions. Choosing a reputable piercer may cost more upfront, but it will save you from costly dental work or infections down the road.
Ignoring the Importance of Consulting a Dentist
Many people overlook the importance of consulting with a dentist before getting an oral piercing. While piercers handle the procedure, dentists are experts in oral health and can assess whether your mouth is healthy enough for a piercing. Skipping this step is a mistake that can lead to serious issues later.
Your dentist can evaluate your teeth, gums, and overall oral health to see if there are any underlying problems that might worsen after a piercing. For example, if you have gum disease, an oral piercing can exacerbate the problem by causing further gum recession, which can expose the roots of your teeth and make them more susceptible to decay. Additionally, oral piercings are known to increase the risk of infection, especially if there is already some level of periodontal disease present.
Your dentist can also help by offering advice on the safest location for the piercing and providing tips on how to maintain good oral hygiene afterward. In fact, some dentists may even recommend specific types of jewelry that are less likely to damage your teeth and gums. Consulting with your dentist before getting a piercing is an important step in protecting your oral health, yet many people skip it because they don’t realize how critical it is.
Skipping or Inadequately Following Aftercare Instructions
Perhaps the most dangerous mistake you can make after getting an oral piercing is neglecting aftercare. The mouth is filled with bacteria, making it one of the most infection-prone areas of the body. Without proper aftercare, a new piercing can quickly become infected, leading to swelling, pain, and potentially severe complications such as endocarditis, a life-threatening infection of the heart’s inner lining.
Many people think that once the piercing is done, they can go back to their normal routine, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. You’ll need to follow a strict aftercare regimen that includes rinsing your mouth with a non-alcoholic mouthwash several times a day and avoiding irritating substances like alcohol and spicy foods. Playing with the piercing, whether it’s spinning the jewelry or touching it with unclean hands, is another surefire way to introduce bacteria into the open wound. This is why it’s important to not only follow the piercer’s aftercare instructions but also consult with a healthcare provider if you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, discharge, or prolonged swelling.
Furthermore, the healing time for oral piercings is longer than most people realize. A tongue piercing can take up to four months to fully heal, and during this time, you’ll need to be extra cautious about oral hygiene. Not giving the piercing enough time to heal before resuming normal activities like eating hard foods or engaging in oral contact can cause irritation, prolong the healing process, and increase the risk of complications.
Using Low-Quality or Improperly Sized Jewelry
Selecting the wrong jewelry for your oral piercing can cause significant damage to your teeth and gums. Many people make the mistake of choosing cheap, low-quality metals that can corrode, irritate the skin, or even cause allergic reactions. Additionally, poorly sized jewelry can lead to excessive rubbing against your gums or teeth, causing gum recession, tooth damage, and even tooth loss.
Cheap jewelry made from subpar metals can irritate the surrounding tissues, making them more prone to infection. It’s recommended to use jewelry made from hypoallergenic materials such as titanium or solid gold. These materials are not only safer for your body, but they are also less likely to cause irritation or damage to your teeth and gums.
Size is another important factor. If the jewelry is too large, it can bump against your teeth when you talk or eat, leading to chips, cracks, and even fractures. Some people opt for larger jewelry because they like the look, but this can be harmful, especially in the early stages when the piercing is still healing. Swelling is common after getting a piercing, so initially, larger jewelry may be used, but once the swelling subsides, it’s important to switch to a smaller, properly fitting piece.
Wearing improperly sized jewelry or swapping to cheaper options can result in costly dental repairs down the road. In some cases, damage caused by oral piercings may require fillings, crowns, or even root canals. It’s crucial to invest in high-quality, well-fitted jewelry from the start to prevent these issues.
Conclusion
Getting an oral piercing can be a fun way to express yourself, but it’s essential to be informed about the risks and responsibilities involved. By avoiding these common mistakes—choosing an experienced piercer, consulting your dentist, following strict aftercare, and selecting proper jewelry—you can reduce the risks associated with oral piercings and ensure that your smile stays healthy. Investing time and effort in choosing the right piercer, listening to your dentist, and maintaining good hygiene will help you enjoy your piercing with minimal complications.
Always prioritize your oral health, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you experience any issues after getting your piercing.
Maryville Family Dental is your home for advice in any dental situation. Schedule an appointment with us today!
