Like tattoos and colorful hair dyes, body piercings have become a form of art. Unfortunately, this form of self-expression can come with some negative side effects, particularly when oral piercings are involved. The leading dentist at the Dental Clinic of Onalaska in Wisconsin is here to explain how tongue, lip, cheek, and uvula piercings can negatively affect your dental health.

The Effects of Oral Piercings on Your Dental Health

1. Pain, Inflammation, & Infection

Pain and inflammation are common with almost any type of body jewelry, particularly in the days immediately following the piercing. Because our mouths are full of bacteria, however, this makes tongue studs, lip rings, and the like riskier. They leave open wounds in these tissues where bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause an infection. If not treated promptly, these can become life threatening.

2. Damages Gums, Teeth, & Restorations

A lot of people fidget with things when they’re nervous or even just bored. Some people simply click a pen. People with tongue rings may bite it or click it against their teeth. Metal jewelry can wear down the teeth, causing sensitivity, scratches, and even cracks. The constant rubbing against the gums can lead to gum recession, which can leave the teeth vulnerable to decay. Oral piercings may also damage restorations, like fillings and crowns, which may result in further damage to the teeth.

3. Possible Nerve Damage

Tongue piercings have the potential to cause permanent nerve damage. In most cases, the numbness that follows the piercing is temporary, but not always. If the nerve is permanently damaged, you may experience changes in your sense of taste and how you move your tongue and mouth. This can affect your ability to speak and eat properly.

4. Complicated Visits to Your Dentist

When you get an X-ray at your doctor’s office or an emergency room, they ask you to remove metal jewelry and ask if you have any metal implants that might interfere. Your dentist faces the same obstacles when trying to take X-rays of your teeth. If not removed, the metal studs and rings could prevent them from catching dental problems early, resulting in prolonged discomfort and more expensive procedures later on.

If you’re considering getting an oral piercing, it’s a good idea to speak with your dentist about how it might affect your dental health. If you already have a piercing, work with your dentist to create a plan to minimize potential damage, infection, and other complications. At the Dental Clinic of Onalaska, you’ll find Dr. Olsen and his team of dental hygienists are more than happy to help you achieve optimal oral health regardless of your choices in body art. Request an appointment online or call them at (608) 783-3341.