Before getting any part of your mouth pierced, you should seek the advice of your dentist.
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS WITH ORAL PIERCINGS:
Prolonged bleeding– If a blood vessel is punctured during the piercing, it can be difficult to control bleeding.
Pain and swelling– Pain and swelling. Immediately when the tongue is
pierced there is significant swelling and can last for days. In extreme cases, a severely swollen tongue can close the airway and restrict breathing.
Infection– Our mouth contains millions of bacteria, which can lead to infection after an oral piercing. Playing with the jewellery once it is placed in the mouth increases those chances.
Gum tissue damage – Metal jewelry can injure soft gum tissue and can also lead to recession of the gums. In addition to looking unattractive, recessed gums leave your tooth root more vulnerable to decay, tooth sensitivity & periodontal disease.
Interference with normal oral function– Jewelry in the mouth can cause an excessive flow of saliva, interfere with your ability to pronounce words correctly and cause problems with mastication (chewing) and swallowing.
Blood-borne diseases/transmission of disease – Oral piercing has been identified by the National Institutes of Health as a possible factor in transmission of hepatitis B, C, D and G.
Chipped or cracked teeth– Jewelry coming into contact with teeth can fracture teeth. Teeth with fillings, crowns or caps, may also be damaged if the jewelry is making contact.
Endocarditis– Oral piercing carries a risk of endocarditis, an inflammation of the heart valves or tissues. The wound created during piercing provides an opportunity for bacteria to pass into the bloodstream, where they can move to the heart.
Nerve damage– Numbness or loss of sensation at the site of the piercing or
movement problems (for pierced tongues) can occur if nerves have been damaged.
Allergic reaction to metal– A hypersensitivity reaction called allergic contact dermatitis to the metal in the jewelry can occur in susceptible people.
Jewelry aspiration – Jewelry that becomes loose in the mouth can become a choking hazard and, if swallowed, can result in injury to the digestive track or lungs.
As you can see, there are many reasons to think twice before getting pierced. If you’re currently suffering from a piercing, call we’d love to help!
(303) 604-2609
1371 E. Hecla Dr. #D2
Louisville, C0 80027 (map)
RussellHansonDentist.com
Louisville Dentist 