It’s hard to believe some things sometimes become popular:
- Collecting rocks as pets
- Shag carpets
- Tongue piercing.
While tongue piercing might not be a mainstream trend, its popularity has significantly risen in recent years. Research from Columbia University shows that 16% of female students and 4% of male students have chosen to get their tongues pierced. But how can this affect dental health?
At first glance, this procedure might seem no more dangerous than getting your ears pierced. However, if you're considering getting a tongue piercing, it’s crucial to understand the risks it can bring.
The most common complications include severe bleeding, infections, and damage to the tissues in your mouth. Other issues might involve swelling, pain, nerve damage, and gum disease. Among New York University students, 6% of those with tongue piercings experienced complications, compared to 12% with ear piercings, 21% with nipple piercings, and 24% with navel piercings.
"Though rare, some patients require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics to treat infections of the tongue and mouth," notes Dr. Eisig, the director of oral and maxillofacial surgery at Columbia University. "After removing a tongue piercing, a scar remains."
Can a tongue piercing damage your teeth?
There are cases where tongue piercings have caused chips and cracks in teeth. For those who wore large barbells (1.6 cm or more in length) for over 4 years, all patients studied had chipped teeth. Recent research also indicates that tongue piercings can lead to gum recession on the inner surface of the front teeth. This occurs due to the regular pressure from the barbell on the front parts of the jaws, which over time can lead to bone loss that supports the teeth, ultimately causing them to loosen.
Dentists also warn that piercings can damage dental restorations, such as ceramic crowns, veneers, and fillings. To reduce the risk, some patients are advised to use acrylic barbells instead of metal ones.
Simple tips for safe piercing:
After the piercing, rinse your mouth with chlorhexidine solution 2-3 times a day for two weeks, and maintain good oral hygiene; Avoid playing with the barbell's beads with your tongue and teeth to prevent chipping your enamel or crowns; Visit your dentist regularly to detect and address any negative impact of the piercing on your gums and teeth.
