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The Risks of Oral Piercing

The Risks of Oral Piercing and Warding off Associated Dental Health Problems

Why? The mouth is supposedly dirty, as often adverted, the main portal exposed to almost anything on a daily basis, including different kinds of bacteria and other pernicious substances that enter the body. What we drink, eat, or even air are polluted with disease-causing microbes and airborne pathogens causing systemic diseases. Yet, we remain healthy despite microbial attacks because the oral cavity and the body are designed to counteract them. Our saliva has numerous antimicrobial agents to deactivate these microbes while the mouth guards off the infection; and the head and the neck area allow the dense veins, arteries, and lymph vessels transport the antibodies and swiftly assault the infectious agents.

Since oral piercing has gained popularity, many people still intend to have it done despite the risks.  This article focuses disparage to the unsafe practices and methods and to disseminate safety guidelines to raise conscientiousness that knowledge and education is the key to be far off of danger; that if not done properly can cause possible damage to teeth and oral parts -- from diseased gums to septic teeth to fractured or loss of teeth, including allergic reaction to metal, difficulty in oral functions, nerve damage, and endocarditis.

First off, most “piercers” will not tell you about the effects of oral piercing on your teeth and gums, so check out the following:

• professional training and skills
• piercing methods and contamination-control protocol used
• proper aseptic techniques used
• oral and written instructions about aftercare protocols
• availability for follow-up if after-pierce problems arise

The Appropriate Jewelry

Complications can be avoided if jewelry is properly sized, placed and manufactured. Shorter pieces are advisable for lesser chances of swelling and impact on the teeth and other parts of the mouth. Check if it’s for surgical implant applications and the grade of stainless steel and titanium; or, use 14K or higher solid white or yellow nickel-free gold, platinum, and low-dense porous plastic.  No cuts, scratches, rough edges, threads on posts, and polishing agents; and must be 16 gauge and acrylic thread required.

Placement is Vital

Tongue: center of the mouth, in front of the lingual frenulum approximately 3/4 inch or so from the tip of the tongue; top must be a little further back so it leans slightly away from the teeth towards the upper palate

Lip or cheek: perpendicular to the area so it rests in an inert spot, use short post for snug fit and less contact to gums or teeth, placed near the first molars to avoid contact in the parotid ducts and gland.

Aftercare Tips

To avoid the unsightly scar and migration: 

• refrain from talking too much and don’t play with the jewelry during healing
• don't share spoons and other utensils put in the mouth
• use soft-bristled toothbrush
• refrain munching on gum, tobacco, fingernails, etc.
• elevate head above the heart for a few nights after piercing when sleeping
• swelling, dissolve ice in the mouth, take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications

Our body is radically distinctive, and healing process may be different. These safety guidelines are written for added awareness and not an alternative for medical advice. While many of our doctors may not have the training and skills regarding oral piercing, bear in mind that it is still best to consult a medical professional at all times.