Oral piercings are a common form of expression, providing a touch of decoration that enhances the appearance of your smile. However, they can have a direct effect on your oral health if they're not cleaned properly. Additionally, they might interfere with cleanings, fillings, and other oral work at the dentist. Here’s a closer look to help you implement the necessary precautions and ensure the proper level of care. 

Do Piercings Affect Oral Health?  

Piercings that appear on your tongue, cheek, or lip are the most likely to impact oral health. This is because the mouth is constantly damp and contains varying levels of bacteria. If bacteria get into the opening, then there is a chance of infection, which could cause the piercing to swell. 

Other issues that might develop from an oral piercing include chipping or scratching your teeth, gum recession, and minor cuts along the inside of the mouth. These issues occur most often with tongue piercings, which can bump up against the teeth and wear down soft tissue.  

Should I Clean the Piercing to Prevent Bacteria? 

Cleaning the piercing on a regular basis is the only way to prevent an infection. Start by rinsing with water after eating or drinking. This is effective for flushing out tongue piercings as well as the inside of your cheek or lip. The movement of the water will clear out any residue and keep the site clean. 

For the outer regions, use a cotton swab soaked in warm salt water. This will clear away discharge and promote blood circulation. It will also provide immediate relief if there is any inflammation. Make sure to use pure sea salt, as it doesn’t contain chemicals that might irritate the site.

Should I Take It Out at the Dentist? 

It’s always best to remove oral piercings before going to the dentist. Depending on their location, they can catch on the oral tools or get in the way of their work. Plus, the solid metals will show up in the X-rays and could complicate the readings. You can always call the dentist ahead of time to see whether they think you should take any piercings out before coming to the office. 

Give your oral health a boost by working with Dr. Thomas Park, DDS of Seymour, CT. Complete with state-of-the-art equipment and a friendly staff, this local dentist is ready to provide the quality care you seek. Their team is highly skilled in the latest teeth cleaning techniques and will offer guidance on how to continue at home. Call (203) 888-9947 to book an appointment or visit their website for additional information on general dentistry.