Does A Tongue Piercing Mess Up Your Teeth
Tongue piercing has become a trend among the youth, and it's not uncommon to see people with a metal barbell or ring on their tongue. It may look cool and edgy, but many people have concerns about the impact it may have on their dental health. In this article, we will explore whether a tongue piercing can mess up your teeth.
How Does Tongue Piercing Work?
Tongue piercing involves making a hole in the tongue and inserting a barbell or ring through it. The piercing is usually done in the center of the tongue, and the jewelry sits against the lower front teeth when the tongue is at rest. The barbell or ring may move around when talking or eating, and this can cause friction against the teeth or gums.
Impact of Tongue Piercing on Teeth
The constant rubbing of the tongue jewelry against the teeth can cause tooth wear, chipping, fractures, and even tooth loss. The pressure exerted by the jewelry can also push the teeth out of their position, causing them to become crooked or misaligned. The gums can also become irritated or recede due to the friction, leading to gum disease and tooth sensitivity.
Impact of Tongue Piercing on Oral Hygiene
Tongue piercing can also make it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene. Food particles and bacteria can get trapped around the jewelry, leading to bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. The metal in the jewelry can also interfere with dental X-rays, making it harder for dentists to diagnose dental problems.
How to Minimize the Risk of Dental Problems
If you still want to get a tongue piercing despite the risks, there are some things you can do to minimize the impact on your dental health:
- Choose a reputable piercing studio that follows strict hygiene and safety protocols.
- Opt for high-quality jewelry made of surgical stainless steel, titanium, or gold to minimize the risk of metal allergies and infections.
- Choose a shorter barbell or ring to prevent the jewelry from rubbing against the teeth too much.
- Clean your tongue jewelry and tongue regularly with an antiseptic mouthwash or saline solution.
- Avoid playing with the jewelry or moving it around too much.
- Avoid chewing gum, eating hard or crunchy foods, or smoking for the first few weeks after getting a tongue piercing.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings to monitor your dental health.
Conclusion
While a tongue piercing may look cool and trendy, it can have a significant impact on your dental health. The constant rubbing of the jewelry against the teeth can cause tooth wear, chipping, fractures, and even tooth loss. It can also make it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene and increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. If you still want to get a tongue piercing, make sure to choose a reputable piercing studio and follow proper aftercare procedures to minimize the risks.