Prior to getting a tongue piercing, you must first understand that doing so does not come without risks. However, it is possible to significantly reduce these risks by taking the necessary precautions and taking time to properly educate yourself prior to entering a piercing shop.
Trained body piercers can correctly (and safely) perform a tongue piercing in as little as a few seconds, but, for the unlucky few that does not mean that life with new tongue stud jewelry will be smooth sailing right from the get-go. Some of the most common problems associated with tongue and other oral piercings include:
- The potential for nerve damage caused by untrained professionals
- The possibility of permanent tooth damage and cracked or chipped dental work, etc.
- The high risk of infection
- Extreme pain caused from swelling and incorrectly chosen studs, barbells or other jewelry
A clean tongue is a happy tongue!
While it is true that the safety risks are greatly reduced if the proper health precautions are taken during the initial process, proper hygiene and after-care facilitate the healing process.
Immediately following the procedure, remember to:
- Rinse regularly with clear (non-minty) antiseptic mouth wash
- Avoid alcoholic beverages or smoking cigarettes
- Replace your toothbrush
- Avoid putting anything in your mouth (pens, fingers, etc.) that might carry bacteria
- Avoid eating foods that are too hot, too cold, too crunchy or overly spicy
Choosing the right ‘bling’ isn’t easy
Dentists across the globe balk at the thought of patients with tongue piercings, and for good reason. For years tongue piercings were equated with chipped teeth, damaged gums and other dental problems. And, while these challenges still exit, they can be reduced by selecting the proper jewelry for the job, (i.e.: don’t try to use a Labret ring for a tongue stud.)
Most piercers use 14 gauge surgical steel barbells for tongue piercings. Initially, a longer barbell will be used. This will allow plenty of room for swelling and should only be kept in for as long as it takes for the piercing to heal. Any longer than this and the risk of tooth damage increases. After this time, you may choose between varieties of shorter studs that are available. Tongue studs come in many colors, sizes and materials so know your options and choose wisely.
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