Oral piercings are a common way to express style and individuality. However, because a foreign object is being introduced into the mouth, it's essential to take special precautions to maintain your dental health and avoid difficult visits with the dentist. Your mouth contains a significant amount of bacteria, so here are some steps you should take to protect yourself if you have a tongue, lip, or cheek piercing. 

What to Know About Common Oral Piercings and Dental Hygiene

Tongue Piercings 

The primary concern with any sort of oral piercing is infection. This problem usually occurs at the piercing site and spreads from there. You'll have a range of physical symptoms, which can include discomfort or tenderness at the piercing site, a fever, chills, body aches, and swelling. Infection can result from the body's exposure to dangerous bacteria or a reaction to the metals in the piercing. Tongue piercings are highly susceptible to infection since bacteria live on the surface of the tongue.

In addition to infections, people have a tendency to play with tongue piercings in their mouths, which can lead to cracked or broken teeth. The metal could damage fillings or hurt your gums, so try to leave the piercing alone once it's in place. 

Lip and Cheek Piercings 

Like tongue piercings, cheek and lip piercings can lead to painful infections that have to be treated with antibiotics. They can also damage your teeth or gums, depending on the location. Further, any sort of mouth piercing may cause excessive saliva production along with drooling. 

How to Care for Oral Piercings 

Avoid infections by brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice per day. Next, be mindful of where the piercing is when you're talking or eating so that you don't bite down on it. 

Make sure the piercing site is free of food or other contaminants so that you don't get an infection, and don't forget to check the piercing every once in a while to make sure it's secure. Finally, visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and X-rays. 

If you're looking for a skilled dentist to help with your oral health needs, visit Springville Family Dental Center. This clinic offers cleanings, X-rays, fillings, teeth whitening, dentures, and other oral procedures to help you look and feel your best. They serve residents throughout St. Clair County. Contact their office by calling (205) 467-6147, or find out more about their services online.