Tongue rings and other oral piercings can give your look an edge, but unfortunately, they can also complicate your dental care. Although high-quality tongue rings are typically made from non-allergenic stainless steel, they are still foreign objects that can interfere with chewing and the natural movements of the tongue. Here are a few frequently asked questions about oral piercings and dental care, so that you can prevent problems. 

Dental Care and Oral Piercings: Your Questions Answered

Are Oral Piercings Safe for the Teeth & Gums?

Yes and no. While it is true that many people live with oral piercings without incident, there is a long list of inherent risks of having your lips, tongue, or cheeks pierced. In addition to increasing salivary flow, unintentionally biting on the piercing could cause tooth fractures, dental work damage, and even gum recession. 

Can Injuries Be Serious?

While some complications of oral piercings seem insignificant, others can cause lasting damage. For instance, certain piercings can split the tongue, cause serious nerve damage, or bleed excessively. Some patients can develop severe infections and compromise the health of the entire tongue or jaw. 

What Does the ADA Recommend?

Because of the inherently risky nature of tongue, lip, and cheek piercings, the ADA recommends avoiding these additions, or at the very least talking with your dentist to understand your individual risk level.

How Can You Prevent Problems?

If you already have piercings, you should actively focus on keeping the piercing site clean, and monitor the area closely for changes like swelling, redness, or irritation. Patients should also remove their piercings regularly to deep clean the tongue. Since additional bacteria can build around piercings or in the incision itself, using a tongue scraper as part of your normal dental care routine may help to reduce bacteria buildup.

If your child has or is considering an oral piercing, bring them to Pedodontic Associates in Honolulu, Aiea, and Kahului, HI, to discuss their risk factors. These pediatric dentists have over 25 years of experience serving the children and teens of Oahu and Maui. In addition to talking with patients about the inherent risks of oral piercings, this team of experienced professionals can also screen your family for other dental problems that could be complicated if additional changes are made. To learn more about their dental care services, visit them online or call one of their three offices: (808) 735-1733 for Honolulu, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, and (808) 877-0066 for Kahului.