A Hole New World: The Risks Posed by Piercings

Getting your tongue pierced could put you at increased risk of several oral health problems, including chipped teeth and infection.
Getting your tongue pierced could put you at increased risk of several oral health problems, including chipped teeth and infection.

Though some people think lip and tongue piercings are trendy, there’s one thing that will never be in style: chipped teeth, which is just one of the problems that can happen when your mouth is bejeweled. If you’re considering a piercing – or if you have a teen who’s been asking for one – be aware of these side effects that can be hazardous to oral health.

  • Chipped teeth. People with piercings frequently chip their teeth on the metal in their mouths while they’re talking, eating, sleeping, or chewing. Chips damage the tooth enamel. And if the fracture goes deeper, it may require a root canal or even removal of the damaged tooth.
  • Swelling and choking. It’s not uncommon for people with piercings to experience a swollen tongue. In extreme cases, a severely swollen tongue can actually hinder or completely prevent breathing. If the jewelry comes loose, it may also become a choking hazard.
  • Gum recession. This can occur where the stud is in direct or frequent contact with the teeth or gums.
  • Infection. Any kind of puncture in your mouth can allow bacteria into your bloodstream, which can lead to infections in other parts of your body – even your heart.
  • Allergic reactions. Certain metals, such as nickel, can cause allergic reactions. Other metals, such as surgical-grade stainless steel, are less risky.

A seven-year study of U.S. hospital emergency department visits found almost 25,000 visits related to oral piercings, primarily for infections, soft tissue puncture wounds, and from patients’ inability to remove piercings overgrown with soft tissue. If you do decide that a piercing is worth the risk, take good care of it. Remove the jewelry to eat, sleep, or participate in strenuous activity such as exercise. Clean the piercing with an antiseptic mouthwash after every meal, and don’t forget to brush. Plaque can build up on jewelry just as it builds up on enamel, so cleaning it with a toothbrush when you brush your teeth can help prevent bad breath and is essential for good oral health. Of course, the best way to keep your mouth healthy is to avoid oral piercings entirely.

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Sandi Perez
Sandi Ernst Perez, Ph.D., joined Delta Dental of Arizona in 2006 and has a dual role as vice president of community benefit and executive director of the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation. A champion for the mouth-body connection in health and wellness, she works to fulfill the Foundation's mission to improve the oral health of underserved and uninsured populations across the state by educating the public, increasing awareness and providing grants, leadership and technical assistance. Originally from Ohio, she has lived in Arizona since 1992 with her husband, two children (one still in braces) and four rescue dogs. That translates into 296 teeth to take care of! [Editor's Note: Sandi is no longer a current DDAZ employee.]