Oral Piercing--Is it Worth It?

Body piercing is a popular form of self-expression.  But piercing isn't just a matter of style--it's a health issue too.

In particular, piercing the tongue, lips, cheeks, or the uvula--the tissue that hangs at the back of the throat) is not as safe as you think.  That is because the mouth's moist environment is home to huge amounts of bacteria, creating an ideal place for infection to start.

If you are thinking about getting a piercing--or if you already have one--here are some health risks you should know about:

Infection--given that the mouth contains bacteria, oral piercing carries the potential for infection at the site of the piercing.  Any food particles that collect around piercings are breeding grounds for bacteria.

Prolonged bleeding--damage to your tongue's blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

Swelling--swelling commonly occurs after oral piercing.  Severe swelling can even block your airway.

Nerve damage--if this happens, you may experience temporary or permanent loss of feeling in your tongue.

Excessive drooling--oral jewelry can cause excessive saliva production and affect your ability to pronounce words clearly.


Damage to teeth and gums--some people develop a habit of biting on the barbells which can lead to injury to the gums and cracked and broken teeth--I have seen this MANY times!

Allergic reactions--the metal may cause an allergic reaction

X-rays--mouth jewelry must be removed to take x-rays or it will interfere with our ability to diagnose properly.

Bloodborne disease transmission--oral piercing has been identified as a possible factor in transmission of hepatitis B, C, D, and G.

Heart problems--oral piercing carries a potential risk of inflammation of the  heart valves or tissues.  Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the piercing site and travel to the heart where it multiplies.

If you already have piercings:

1.  Contact your dentist immediately at any signs of infection, swelling , pain fever, chills, shaking or a red-streaked appearance around the piercing.
2.  Keep the piercing site clean.
3.  Minimize chewing on the jewelry.
4.  Remove jewelry when playing sports.
5.  See your dentist regularly so they can check for any problems.