Body piercing has become a popular form of self expression. Unfortunately, this fashion statement could be dangerous to your health. If you are considering an oral piercing, please consult with Dr. Joy Lunan first. She can explain the possible side effects. If you already have an oral piercing, make sure to see Dr. Lunan regularly so she can catch a potential issue before it becomes harmful. 

Your mouth contains millions of bacteria and can contribute to infections or swelling of a piercing. Your mouth is a moist environment, therefore an ideal place for infection to begin near the wound from an oral piercing. An infection could become life threatening if it is not treated quickly. It is also possible for a piercing to cause swelling of the tongue, in some instances blocking off your airway. 

People with piercings tend to develop a habit of playing with or biting the piercing. This can lead to gum injuries or cracked, scratched or sensitive teeth. An improperly placed piercing may damage salivary glands under the tongue, leading to lack of salivary production. The glands under our tongue produce about 5% of saliva entering the mouth.

One may develop an allergic reaction depending on what type of peircing is placed and the metals it may contain.

After a piercing is placed one may experience a numbing in their tongue. This, is in most cases, is temporary but, sometimes can be permanent. An injured tongue can effect your taste or how you move your mouth. Damage to the tongue’s blood vessels can lead to serious blood lossas well. 

Jewelry worn in the mouth is obviously a choking hazard if it becomes loose. More plaque may build up on piercings as well, requiring more frequent dental cleanings with Dr. Lunan. 

If you have any signs of infection such as swelling, pain, fever, chills or shaking please contact your physician or Dr. Lunan immediately. Always be sure to follow your home care instructions given by Dr. Lunan for the piercing as well. Keep your piercing site clean and free of any food matter by rinsing after meals faithfully. Try to avoid clicking the jewelry against your teeth to prevent damaging them. Remember to periodically check the tightness of your piercing to be sure it doesn’t loosen. Remove any jewelry when playing sports to prevent an injury to any structures in the mouth. 

  Dr. Joy Lunan    819 Straits Turnpike    Middlebury, CT 06762

  www.middlebury.com     203-598-7920