What is oral piercing?
Oral piercings are piercings of the tongue, lips, or
cheeks. In recent years, mouth piercings have become a form of self-expression.
As with pierced ears, metal jewelry used for oral piercings comes in a variety
of styles, including studs, rods, and rings. However, piercing your tongue,
lips, or cheeks is more hazardous to your health than piercing your ears. Check
with your dentist before piercing any part of your mouth.
You may not be aware of the possible side effects of oral
piercings. This includes:
Infection: Our mouth contains millions of bacteria that
can cause infection after mouth piercing. Handling jewelry after it has been
placed in the mouth also increases the chances of infection.
Prolonged bleeding - If the needle pierces a blood vessel
during piercing, it can be difficult to stop the bleeding and severe blood loss
as a result.
Pain and swelling. Pain and swelling are common symptoms
of oral piercings. In extreme cases, a severely swollen tongue can close the
airway and restrict breathing.
Chipped or cracked teeth - Contact with oral jewelry can
break your teeth. Teeth with restorations, such as crowns or corks, can also be
damaged if jewelry strikes them.
Injury to the gums: Metal jewelry can not only damage the
soft tissue of the gums but also cause them to retreat. The depressed gums not
only look unattractive but also make the root of the tooth more vulnerable to
tooth decay and periodontal disease.
Oral problems: Mouth jewelry can cause excessive
salivation, make it difficult to pronounce words correctly and cause problems
with chewing and swallowing.
Bloodborne diseases: Oral perforation has been identified
by the National Institutes of Health as a possible contributor to the
transmission of hepatitis B, C, D, and G.
Endocarditis: Oral perforation carries the risk of
endocarditis, inflammation of the valves, or heart tissue. A wound created
during an oral piercing allows oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream, where
they can enter the heart.
How long does oral piercing last?
As long as your mouth is not infected and the piercing in
your mouth does not interfere with normal functioning, it can remain in your
mouth indefinitely. Remember to visit your dentist at the first sign of pain or
problems in addition to your regular check-ups. Because of the risks associated
even after the initial wound has healed, such as damage to teeth or jewelry
that loses and is swallowed, it is safest to avoid oral piercings altogether.
