A Comprehensive Guide to Oral Piercings
Oral piercings have become increasingly popular in recent years, with people of all ages getting their lips, tongues, cheeks, and other areas of the mouth pierced. While oral piercings can be a great way to express yourself and enhance your appearance, it is important to be aware of the risks and complications involved before getting one.
Types of oral piercings
There are many different types of oral piercings, but the most common are:
- Tongue piercing: A tongue piercing is a piercing through the center of the tongue. It is the most common type of oral piercing and is considered to be the safest.
- Lip piercing: A lip piercing can be done through the upper lip, lower lip, or both. Lip piercings are also relatively common and are considered to be relatively safe.
- Cheek piercing: A cheek piercing is a piercing through the cheek tissue, usually between the upper lip and the nose. Cheek piercings are less common than tongue and lip piercings and can be more painful. dental implants in las vegas
- Labret piercing: A labret piercing is a piercing through the center of the lower lip, just below the vermillion border (the red part of the lip). Labret piercings are similar to lip piercings, but they are considered to be more durable and less likely to migrate.
- Monroe piercing: A Monroe piercing is a piercing through the left side of the upper lip, just above the vermillion border. It is named after actress Marilyn Monroe, who had a similar mole on her lip.
- Medusa piercing: A medusa piercing is a piercing through the center of the upper lip, just below the nose. It is less common than other types of oral piercings and can be more painful.
- Snake bite piercing: A snake bite piercing is two piercings through the bottom lip, on either side of the midline. Snake bite piercings are similar to labret piercings, but they are more symmetrical.
- Spider bite piercing: A spider bite piercing is two piercings through the upper lip, on either side of the midline. Spider bite piercings are similar to Monroe piercings, but they are more symmetrical.
- Angel bite piercing: An angel bite piercing is two piercings through the upper lip, one on each side of the midline, just below the vermillion border. Angel bite piercings are similar to Monroe piercings, but they are more symmetrical.
- Dahlia piercing: A dahlia piercing is a piercing through the cheek tissue, just below the corner of the mouth. Dahlia piercings are less common than other types of oral piercings and can be more painful.
Risks and complications of oral piercings
Oral piercings are generally safe, but there are some risks and complications involved. These include:
- Infection: Infection is the most common complication of oral piercings. It is important to follow your piercer’s instructions carefully to minimize the risk of infection.
- Swelling: Swelling is also common after getting an oral piercing. It usually disappears within a few days.
- Bleeding: Bleeding is another common side effect of oral piercings. It is usually minor and stops on its own.
- Allergic reaction: Some people may be allergic to the metal used in oral piercing jewelry. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing, remove the jewelry immediately and see a doctor.
- Pain: Oral piercings can be painful, especially in the first few days. Pain medication can be used to relieve the pain.
- Damage to teeth and gums: Oral piercing jewelry can damage teeth and gums if it is not worn properly. It is important to choose jewelry that fits snugly and does not rub against your teeth or gums.
- Speech impairment: Oral piercings can cause speech impairment, especially in the first few days. This is usually temporary and disappears as the piercing heals.
- Nerve damage: There is a small risk of nerve damage if an oral piercing is done incorrectly. This can cause numbness or tingling in the area of the piercing.
- Endocarditis: Endocarditis is a serious infection of the inner lining of the heart. It is very rare, but it can occur in people with oral piercings.
How to care for an oral piercing
It is important to follow your piercer’s instructions carefully to care for your new oral piercing. Here are some general tips:
- Rinse your mouth with a sterile saline solution or alcohol-free mouthwash after every meal and drink.
- Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day.
- Avoid playing with your piercing or touching it with unwashed hands.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, as these can irritate the piercing and slow down healing.
- Eat a soft diet for the first few days after getting the piercing