Think Twice Before Getting An Oral Piercing

Young woman with a tongue piercing.

As your dental health experts, it’s our job to ensure that your whole mouth stays healthy. And on that note, we have something to say about oral piercings: they’re usually more trouble than they’re worth!

In the years that we’ve practiced general dentistry in Boston, we see a lot of side effects of oral piercings. We want to make sure that our patients have all the facts before they jump in. So consider these factors:

1. You’re At High Risk For Cracks And Chips

Oral piercings introduce hard metal components into your mouth, posing a significant risk to your teeth and existing dental work. This is particularly important when you’re playing sports or engaging in physical activities. The sudden impact from a fall or collision can cause the metal in your mouth to crack or chip your teeth. Even without an impact, the constant presence of metal increases the likelihood of damage.

Expert Opinion:

It’s crucial to always remove your piercing and use a mouthguard when engaging in sports. Protecting your teeth from unnecessary risks can save you from costly and painful dental procedures in the future.

2. Metal Constantly Abrades Teeth And Gums

The repeated contact of metal against your teeth can significantly wear down your enamel, making you more vulnerable to sensitivity, decay, and discoloration. Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, but it isn’t indestructible. Once it’s worn away, it doesn’t regenerate.

Moreover, the constant rubbing of metal against your gums can cause irritation and lead to gum recession. This recession can expose the roots of your teeth, making them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity, and in severe cases, it can lead to tooth loss. Gum recession is not easily reversible, and it can compromise the structural integrity of your teeth.

3. A Tongue Ring Or Stud Harbors Bacteria

Your mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria, and piercings provide additional surfaces for these bacteria to thrive. The warm, moist environment of your mouth makes it easy for bacteria to accumulate around the piercing site. This not only contributes to bad breath but also increases the risk of infections.

Health Risks and Preventative Measures:

  • Piercings can lead to localized infections, including periodontitis.

To mitigate these risks, it’s vital to maintain excellent oral hygiene. If you have a piercing, you should remove it regularly to clean both the jewelry and the area around it. However, even with rigorous cleaning, the risk of bacterial buildup remains significant.

4. The Risks Go Further

The potential complications of oral piercings extend beyond dental care. Piercings can cause permanent nerve damage, leading to numbness or altered sensation in the tongue or lips. This can affect your ability to taste and speak properly. Speech impediments caused by tongue piercings are not uncommon, as the metal can interfere with the natural movement of your tongue.

Broader Health Implications:

  • The ADA warns that oral piercings can lead to prolonged bleeding and swelling.
  • Continuous discomfort from piercings can interfere with daily activities such as eating and speaking.

Some of these issues may seem merely inconvenient, but others can pose serious health risks. Permanent nerve damage can have lifelong consequences, and infections can escalate into more severe health problems if left untreated.

Think Twice

In light of the risks associated with oral piercings, it’s crucial to think twice before deciding to get one. The potential for dental fractures, enamel wear, gum recession, bacterial infections, nerve damage, and other complications should be carefully considered. Maintaining optimal dental health is essential for your overall well-being, and avoiding oral piercings is a step in the right direction.

If you have any questions about your dental health or if you’re considering a piercing, feel free to contact us. We’re here to provide you with the information and care you need to make the best decisions for your oral health. Schedule a dental cleaning appointment with us to ensure your smile stays healthy and beautiful.

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