Body piercing is a popular form of self-expression. Oral piercings may look cool, but they can harm your health. Richview Family Dentistry wants you to know some of the possible problems.

Infection, Pain & Swelling

• Your mouth is a moist environment, home to huge amounts of bacteria, and an ideal place for infections.
• Piercing the tongue can also cause your tongue to swell, potentially blocking your airway.

Damage to Gums, Teeth, and Fillings

• A common habit of biting or playing with the piercing can injure your gums and lead to cracked, scratched, or sensitive teeth. They can also damage fillings.

Hypersensitivity to Metals

• Allergic reactions at the pierced site are also possible.

Nerve Damage

• After piercing, you may experience a numb tongue caused by nerve damage that is usually temporary but can sometimes be permanent.
• The injured nerve may affect your sense of taste or how you move your mouth.
• Damage to your tongue’s blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

Excessive Drooling

• Your tongue piercing can increase saliva production.

Dental Appointment Difficulties

• The jewelry can get in the way of dental care by blocking X-rays.

Precautions:

• Contact your dentist immediately if you have any signs of infection, swelling, pain, fever, chills, or a red-streaked appearance around the piercing site.
• Keep the piercing site clean by using a mouth rinse after every meal.
• When participating in sports, remove the jewelry and protect your mouth with a mouth guard.
• See your dentist regularly, and remember to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily.

If it has been a while since your last check-up or if you’re new to the area and looking for a family dentist, give us a call today at (931) 647-2243. We love new patients at Richview Family Dentistry!