Tongue Piercing is all the rage today.
As a hygienist I have to warn those of you that want or have your tongue pierced.
The biggest problem I see, is broken teeth by accidentally biting down on the metal barbell piercing.
It is better to have a plastic ball end cap then the metal ball variety.
Size does matter in oral piercings. The larger– the better chance of damage.
I also see gum recession. Many pierced patrons “play” with the metal ball of the piercing along the back of their lower teeth. Overtime, this can cause the gum (gingival) tissue to receed (pull away) from the teeth. This exposes the root surface (called dentin) which is softer than enamel.
Other problems commonly seen with tongue piercings:Pain
Swelling
Infection
Increased Salivary Flow
Interference with Speech
Scar tissue (keloid) formation
Development of metal hypersensitivities
Damage to Nerves
Choking on loose jewelry
HIV transmission
Micro-Fractures of Tooth Enamel
Heavy bleeding if vein is punctured during piercing procedure
The American Dental Association (ADA) is Strongly Against Oral Piercings.
If it still is something you want to do, be sure to find a reputable piercer that uses the most sterile technique and equipment.
Be aware that the equipment used to hold and pierce the tongue
can abrade or fracture the anterior dentition (front teeth).
If excessive swelling or bleeding occurs notify a doctor immediately.
Avoid playing with the jewelry, touching with unclean fingers
or having too large of jewelry placed.
The good news (especially for parents of children with piercings)…when removed, the piercing hole can close in a matter of days,even when a very large gauge bar has been used.
Hi i’m 15 years old i periced my tounge myself…stupid i know but i made sure i got it looked at and they told me everything was okay and now about 2 weeks later form having it looked at this white coloured stuff not puss like is haning off underneath my tounge and i think it might be scar tissue it really worries me what is it? and what do i do to make it go away?
Sincerley Sabrina
Hi Sabrina. It sounds like it is probably some form of fibrous(scar) tissue. You stated that it wasn’t pus so it doesn’t sound like it’s infected but I don’t think it will go away. You know I don’t like tongue rings for the reasons listed above in my post, so my advice would be to remove it before any more damage is done. If you really want to keep it in then just keep an eye on it and have a Dentist look at it if it appears infected or you develop pain. Good luck.
it happens its normail it will go away as long as it doesnt hurt
hi my names eleyse Im 18 and got my tounge pierced 5 days ago by a proffesional I rinsed my mouth out and followed the rules but now two of the lower teeth have been exposed *roots* what do I do