Oral piercings, which can be worn on the lips, cheeks, or tongue, might appeal to many aesthetically, but they can also pose quite a few risks to your oral hygiene if not properly maintained. Below are a few aspects to keep in mind if you have or are thinking about an oral piercing in order to protect your health. 

What Dental Issues Can Oral Piercings Cause?

1. Cracked Teeth & Irritated Gums

While tooth enamel is the hardest substance on the human body, it’s not impervious to damage. The metal pieces that rub against your teeth may cause cracking and chipping, or it might dislodge dental work. Buy the right size jewelry and don’t play with it while you’re wearing it to prevent tooth damage.  

2. Increased Infection Risk

Infections can easily arise in the mouth due to the massive amount of bacteria present. Oral infections can also be quite dangerous if timely medical attention isn’t sought. Keep your jewelry clean and be sure to maintain positive oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. 

3. Damage to Nerves

Nerve damage in your mouth may cause numbness in the tongue, or it can affect your sense of taste. In some cases, this damage may be permanent. To avoid this issue, choose a reputable piercer with strong reviews from past clients. 

4. Allergic Reactions

People can be allergic to all sorts of materials, including metal. An allergic reaction may result, which can cause swelling, itching, hives, and many other serious issues. Allergic reactions are also associated with life-threating swelling, so avoid non-treated metal piercings if you’ve experienced this allergy in the past. Jewelry materials that are usually safe to wear are sterling silver, titanium, or stainless steel. 

A reliable dentist can help you maintain optimum oral hygiene with a piercing. In Summerville or Fairmount, GA, Dr. Richard R. Miller Jr., DDS offers preventative care like routine checkups, as well as restorative procedures like root canal therapy, and cosmetic dentistry treatments. This office provides personalized, friendly, high-quality care to ensure you’re comfortable during the procedure. Visit them online to learn more about their services. To schedule an appointment, call the Summerville office at (706) 857-4741 or the Fairmount office at (706) 337-3347.