Oral piercings are an act of self-expression for many. However, these accessories can affect oral health due to improper dental care. Although having one can have health risks, understanding how to maintain your piercings can minimize these complications. Use this guide to learn more about it and what to do to protect your oral health. 

How Piercings Impact Your Oral Health

The most common tongue piercing is located at the midline, .75 inches away from the tip of the tongue. These create small holes in the muscle where gold-titanium or stainless-steel jewelry is placed, such as studs, barbells, rings, and hoops. 

According to a study, 26% of people with tongue piercings suffer tooth damage due to accessory biting, causing tooth chipping. Additionally, it shows that 44% develop gingival recessions where the gums pull away from the teeth, resulting in an increased risk of tooth loss. Lastly, the pressure of the piercings bumping the barbell to the front two teeth causes diastema. This results in a gradual shift of the teeth where a space forms in between.

Lip piercings are commonly located at the corners of the mouth, where it rubs and bumps on the gums. As a result, 50% of those with these piercings suffer from gingival recessions commonly found in front of the lower teeth. On the other hand, cheek piercings located right above the side of the lips can also damage teeth near the accessory site. 

What Dental Care Routine to Follow

• Clean the Site: Rinse your mouth to eliminate leftover debris after meals. Additionally, include gargling twice daily with an antimicrobial solution to minimize infection. 
• Regular Oral Hygiene: Protecting teeth and gums requires brushing and flossing twice daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth, tongue, and jewelry to avoid plaque buildup.
• Avoid Playing Sports With the Jewelry:  Remove the jewelry before participating in any physical activity. Consider wearing mouthguards to protect your teeth from potential damage if possible. 

If you’re looking for a dental care expert, visit Brandi Prather, DMD, PSC in Somerset, KY. For over a decade, Dr. Brandi and her welcoming staff have provided good dental care for kids and teens, including services such as teeth cleaning, tooth fillings, and dealing with chipped teeth. Dr. Brandi has a 5-star rating on Facebook, and you can reach her office at (606) 679-5437 to schedule an appointment.