The Ins and Outs of Oral Piercings: Navigating Risks and Aftercare

Welcome to Martin Dentistry, where we prioritize your oral health and well-being. In this blog post, we'll delve into the world of oral piercings, discussing the risks involved and providing essential aftercare tips to ensure your smile remains healthy and vibrant.

Risks of Oral Piercings:

While oral piercings may be a trendy form of self-expression, it's crucial to understand the potential risks they pose to your oral health:

Infection: The mouth is home to countless bacteria, making it susceptible to infections. Piercing the tongue, lips, or cheeks increases the risk of bacterial entry, leading to painful infections that may require medical attention.

Gum Damage: Constant contact between oral jewelry and the gums can result in recession, leading to gum damage and potential tooth loss over time.

Tooth Damage: Oral piercings, particularly those in the tongue, may cause tooth chipping, cracking, or enamel erosion due to regular contact with teeth.

Nerve Damage: Improper piercing placement can damage nerves in the oral cavity, causing numbness or altered sensations.

Swelling and Speech Impairment: Initial swelling is common after getting an oral piercing, which may affect speech and oral functions. In some cases, excessive swelling can lead to difficulty breathing.

Aftercare Tips for Oral Piercings:

Minimize the risks associated with oral piercings by following these essential aftercare tips:

Cleanliness is Key: Maintain impeccable oral hygiene by gently brushing your teeth and tongue after every meal. Rinse your mouth with a saline solution or non-alcoholic, antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce the risk of infection.

Hands Off: Resist the temptation to play with or twist the piercing. Touching the jewelry with dirty hands can introduce harmful bacteria, leading to infections.

Ice It Down: Use ice packs to manage swelling during the initial days after piercing. This can also help alleviate any discomfort.

Watch Your Diet: Stick to soft, non-spicy foods during the healing process to avoid irritation and damage to the piercing. Steer clear of hot beverages, alcohol, and tobacco, as they can slow down the healing process.

Follow Professional Advice: Attend all follow-up appointments with your piercer and adhere to their advice. If you notice any signs of infection or complications, seek professional help promptly.

At Martin Dentistry,, we understand the allure of self-expression through oral piercings. However, we want to emphasize the importance of prioritizing your oral health. By being aware of the risks and practicing diligent aftercare, you can enjoy your piercing while minimizing potential complications. If you have any concerns or questions about oral piercings, don't hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable dental team for guidance. Your smile deserves the best care, and we're here to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.

Call us at our two convenient locations. Fishers, IN (317) 676-9588 & Broad Ripple (317) 576-3600 to see how we may assist you today.