Is It Safe to Pierce My Tongue?

Like other forms of body piercing, tongue piercing is risky business. Serious risks are inherent in the procedure and include: local or systemic infection, allergic reactions, bleeding problems, choking hazards and damage to surrounding teeth.

Because the mouth is hard to sterilize and many piercing establishments do not maintain good sterilization procedures - local infection (infection at the piercing site) is a common occurrence. Serious systemic infection is also a possibility including the contraction of hepatitis and/or AIDS. Allergic reactions to the metals used are not uncommon if the materials are not of the highest quality. Unlike other forms of piercing, the tongue caries an increased risk of bleeding problems since the tongue has many blood vessels. The jewelry itself can pose a choking hazard if it becomes loosened for any reason. Finally, tongue piercing carries the risk of damage to the surrounding teeth. The hard jewelry can chip and break enamel or fillings as one talks and eats. This damage can result in the death of the tooth's inner pulp if the trauma to the tooth is chronic. The tooth may become so damaged that it requires expensive crowns or even a root canal to restore a smile. Stripping of gum tissue and bone with eventual tooth loss is also a possibility.

It is important to remember that piercing establishments are not regulated by law nor are the operators licensed. The operator's experience and competence can vary and are not guaranteed. These are important matters to consider before undergoing tongue piercing. If there is a problem after tongue piercing, it is important not only to contact the piercing establishment, but your physician or dentist as needed.
239 days ago

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