From do-it-yourself teeth whitening to tooth gems, dentists see a broad range of fads—some of which are more dangerous than others. Tongue piercings, in particular, are one type of trend that dental professionals are wary of due to the potential oral complications they can cause. As Cincinnati, OH’s general dentistry experts, JP Larson, DDS, and Stephen J. Larson, DDS, are here to warn parents and teens of the serious risks of tongue piercings.  

What Are the Risks of Tongue Piercings?

As with any type of piercing, tongue barbells run the risk of causing infection because the mouth is a source of many types of bacteria. When the tongue becomes infected, it could lead to swelling, which, if severe enough, might even restrict breathing.

Even if the piercing heals properly, there are still long-term risks to note. The American Dental Association advises against tongue piercings because the oral jewelry is linked to issues, like chipped and damaged teeth and gum recession. One of the more common long-term effects of the piercing is the formation of noticeable gaps between the front teeth as a result of the pressure from the jewelry.

Can the Damage Be Repaired?

While orthodontists and dentists have restorative options available for addressing chipped, misaligned, or otherwise damaged teeth, the issues will continue to recur until the piercing is removed. When seeking treatment for related dental issues, patients with tongue piercings might not be able to receive high-quality dental X-rays because the jewelry can compromise the imaging.

Ultimately, dental professionals agree that the serious risks associated with tongue piercings outweigh any potential benefits. The caring dentists and hygienists at JP Larson, DDS, and Stephen J. Larson, DDS, want to see their patients enjoy a lifetime of optimal dental wellness, which is why they’re committed to sharing need-to-know information to promote awareness. To learn more about their services, visit their website, or schedule your next appointment by calling (513) 528-1223.