To Pierce or Not to Pierce

Tongue piercings continue to gain popularity as a form of self-expression and individuality. Seen across many cultures and age groups, this trend attracts those looking for a unique way to express their individual style. When considering tongue piercing it is important to understand the potential risk to an individual’s oral and dental health. This article will provide you with important information to help you decide whether to pierce or not to pierce.

Tongue Piercing – Impact on Oral and Dental Health

Tongue piercings create several potential risks to oral and dental health. Understanding these risks helps individuals make informed decisions about maintaining both their style and oral well-being.

Speech and Chewing Changes

Jewelry inside the mouth changes the way the tongue interacts with teeth, gums, and the roof of the mouth. The added weight of a piercing and its position potentially interfere with speech, causing slurred words or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. Chewing also becomes less efficient as the tongue struggles to move food properly. These challenges often require time to adapt with the tongue compensating to enable the individual to perform essential tasks such as talking and eating. These changes are often permanent.

Increased Risk of Infection and Bad Breath

Piercing the tongue creates an open wound that bacteria inside the mouth are quickly drawn to. Jewelry and the surrounding tissue trap food particles, encouraging this bacterial growth. This buildup produces bad breath. If not cared for properly, the risk of infection increases, leading to swelling, pain, and even serious complications like abscesses. Infections then may spread to other areas, including the throat or bloodstream and thus to other parts of the body.

Scar Tissue Formation

Tongue piercings naturally cause scar tissue development. Over time, this tissue thickens and creates a permanent bump around the piercing site. Large amounts of scar tissue often affects the tongue’s appearance and restricts its movement. Repeated piercings in the same area amplify this problem, as the tongue struggles to recover from multiple wounds.

Chipping or Cracking Teeth

Metal or acrylic tongue jewelry easily strikes teeth during everyday activities like talking, chewing, or even sleeping. These impacts chip and crack enamel, exposing the sensitive inner layers of teeth. Damage to enamel cannot repair itself, often requiring dental intervention. In addition, teeth with fillings, crowns, or veneers are at an even higher risk of damage, as these materials do not handle sudden force well.

Gum Recession Exposing Roots of Teeth

Tongue piercings frequently rub against gums, causing irritation and gradual recession. Over time, the gums pull away from the base of the teeth, exposing the roots. This exposure increases sensitivity to hot and cold and leaves teeth vulnerable to decay. Gum recession caused by tongue piercings often progresses silently, making regular dental check-ups essential for early detection.

As you can see, there are numerous risks associated with tongue piercings. Individuals choosing this form of self-expression should weigh these risks against the benefits.

Protecting Your Oral Health

If you decide that a tongue piercing is best for you, then here are a few things that we recommend that will help better protect your oral health. First, choose quality materials like surgical-grade stainless steel to minimize allergic reactions or infections. It is also important to avoid habits like clicking the piercing against teeth, which increases the risk of damage to the teeth. Above all, careful cleaning of a tongue piercing and regular dental check-ups are necessary to help identify problems and reduce long-term risks and complications. The Yuba City Dentistry Group is here to help you manage your oral health in the best way possible. Make an appointment today!