Much of this depends on where your tongue piercing is placed, as well as how many new piercings you have. For one, dont smoke or use a straw during the healing process, because the motion will drastically increase swellingas will the irritation from salty, spicy, hot, or sour foods. Once thats done, here are the next steps: For sure. So please take the time to create a new account for our sleek new site. ", TeensHealth.org: "Body Piercing & What to Expect.". While the tongue may seem like a sensitive spot to pierce, thanks to its responsiveness to tastes and touch, its actually a relatively low-pain placement choice. A properly positioned tongue piercing will be on the mid-line of your tongue (right in the middle), and placed approximately 3/4-inch back from the tip, and will likely be pierced on a diagonal with the top leaning back slightly, allowing the top ball to lean away from your teeth. We've got answers to all your piercing pain-related Qs. According to Healthline, while your tongue piercing is healing, you may notice some changes. Now you can finally start shopping for tongue rings. Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with a bright future (review). Combine 1 teaspoon of sea salt with 8 ounces of warm water. If you decide that you want to let the piercing close up or you just want to switch the jewelry you should wait until the infection has completely cleared. A tongue piercing officially takes between six and eight weeks to completely heal. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Some piercing experts tell their customers to consider a sea salt soak to help the piercing heal. Oral piercings risks & safety measures. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? "We use surgical grade stainless steel barbells or implant grade titanium barbellswhichever clients [prefer]," says Dohoney. (2014). Ultimately, try to not go overboard with your piercing aftercare, because that could potentially case more irritation. Leave on for up to three minutes, and then remove. Because of these risks, the American Dental Association warns against oral piercings. Gently brush the jewelry with a clean toothbrush regularly to avoid plaque build up. In fact, Josephine says that the clamps tend to be more uncomfortable than the piercing itself. Though horizontal piercings are a big no-no, you can still get two vertical tongue piercings. Though everyone's tongue is different, Loheide says if your tongue is too short or you have a tongue-tie which is basically when the webbing underneath your tongue comes almost or all the way to the tip a tongue piercing is probably not the best option for you. Definitely- go see your piercer! The risk of infection also greatly decreases. By placing this order you are planting one more tree in the Ecologi FreshTrends forest. Some hurt much more than others, and some may have longer healing times that can be uncomfortable for months. This is considered the final stretch in your tongue piercing healing process. Mild infections can typically be treated at home. Tongue piercing not that risky, but things can go wrong. Rings are just that: rings that wrap around the lip. We've got the details on its benefits and how to use it. "So we have to make sure that there's space around that blood flow for them to be placed safely.". "Once the swelling has gone down, the barbell will need to be changed to a regular-sized bar so as not to cause additional trauma to the healing wound by the constant tugging and snagging that a longer bar will cause," says Josephine. Some people also choose to consume smoothies or other liquid foods for the first few days, until they adjust to eating with the jewelry in place. Doing so will trap infectious bacteria inside your tongue and may lead to further complications. Chamomile has demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. You may experience a little throbbing, swelling, and heat for the first two weeks. But you still have to be mindful of how your mouth and tongue feel when you do eat or drink certain things. Cartilage piercings heal from the outside in, which means that they may look healed on the outside long before the process is truly done. How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, quarter teaspoon of iodine-free salt mixed in 8 ounces of warm water. From the type of tongue rings to use in your piercing (which aren't really "rings" but rather barbells), to coming up with a daily routine for cleaning your new piercing. Piercing rejection happens when the immune system sees the jewelry as a foreign object and tries to push, Salt water gargles are a cheap, easy, and natural alternative to medicated mouthwashes. The piercer should. Less desirable metals are more likely to cause an allergic reaction or lead to infection. Keep up with your salt rinses, and avoid extensive physical contact with others. Get the details on how you can lower your chances of developing blisters and other possible side effects. People are often concerned about infection, particularly with oral piercings because they believe the mouth to be dirty given that so many germs and bacteria can pass through the mouth through everyday activities like eating, drinking, talking and even breathing. Matheron E, et al. Use warm salt, Not kiss anyone while you heal (avoid contact with someone else's. French kissing, performing oral sex, and engaging in other sexual activity can also transfer bacteria. You may need to throw away any products that you use while the infection is active. Watch out for signs of infection such as: American Academy of General Dentistry: "What Is an Oral Piercing? The Answer May Surprise You. Sometimes the signs of infection can be easy to confuse with irritation in piercings, especially if you're extra paranoid. However, the healing process can take upward of. Soft, bland foods like applesauce and yogurt are preferred. Keeping your head elevated at night can reduce swelling of your body piercing. Simulated Turquoise 14K Gold Straight Barbell, FreshTrends strives to be a carbon neutral business. Suggested aftercare for oral piercings. The initial piercing can lead to scarring, bruising, and, Initially, piercings are healing wounds, and they can be prone to infection. Still, it's important to note that regardless of placement, the piercing can cause damage to the teeth and gums, according to piercer Lynn Loheide and Dr Voigt. Considering laser tattoo removal? Make it hard for your dentist to take an X-ray of your teeth . Belly button piercings have a higher risk because they are difficult to, A look at infected tragus piercings, a condition where a small part of the ear develops an infection. However, proper aftercare and having an experienced piercing professional can significantly minimize risk. The mouth is filled with virulent bacteria, so it is important to be cautious, agrees Ilyas. What is most important to the overall success of your piercing is your commitment to proper hygiene and care during and after the healing process. To clean the outside of the piercing, dab sea salt on the piercing 2 to 3 times daily and wash with mild anti-microbial soap up to twice a day. Tongue piercings can increase your long-term risk of cuts, tooth trauma, and gum recession. "[With an] infection, your tongue is going to look absolutely wild," Myers shares. To do so, stick out your tongue, grab the two beads on either side of the barbell, and twist until one comes off. But keep the area clean while waiting for it to close. several different types of tongue piercings. Piercings in medical students and their effects on the skin. What material options are available for the jewelry? We avoid using tertiary references. Once you get home, Loheide recommends immediately changing out your toothbrush for a new one and using milder oral hygiene products. This reduces the risk of accidentally introducing additional bacteria to the site. The jewelry is pushed through behind the needle to complete the piercing process. The name . "Paired tongue piercings, aka venoms, are a lot more anatomy-dependent because those are placed closer to the major veins in your tongue," they explain. There are multiple types of tongue piercings, though. Clean the area two to three times per day, 6. Some other risks of a tongue piercing include: In some cases, the body can reject a piercing, which can lead to further complications. Do not use stronger solutions or antibiotic creams unless a doctor recommends it. Sign up for our emails & texts to get 10% Off. Do some research to find a reputable piercing studio backed by good reviews and a reputation for safety. Continue with your salt rinses, and make sure youre brushing and flossing. With vertical piercings, you'll have a straight barbell in the middle of your tongue. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. By day 10, your piercing may look like its good to go but appearances arent everything. You may find it easier to eat, but you should still stick with soft foods at this point. Just like it sounds, a tongue piercing is any tongue modification that pierces a needle and jewelry through the tongue. "You need to understand that going into it, be okay with that risk, and also know what you have to do to minimize that risk," Loheide shares. Flossing helps remove food and plaque stuck in between your teeth. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. When the swelling decreases, replace the jewelry with a shorter piece of jewelry. After 10 minutes, rinse the affected area with warm water and gently pat dry with a clean paper towel. The actual piercing part of the session is short, just like most other piercings a hollow needle is pushed through the tongue, and then the piercer adds the jewellery, which is a barbell shape. Some types of oral piercings are: It's a way to express your style, but it can be dangerous. There is a risk of damage to teeth and/or dental work with tongue and other oral piercings, but these risks can be significantly reduced by choosing the right tongue piercing jewelry. Damage your tongue, gums, or fillings. You can make your own warm compress by sticking a damp towel or other cloth-based item in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time. Aswollen tongue can make it hard for you tobreathe. Get the details on how you can lower your chances of developing blisters and other possible side effects. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. But despite the location, the aftercare for tongue piercings is actually a lot easier (and a lot less painful) than some would expect. Use it several times per day at first to encourage the healing process. Still, the amount of swelling shouldnt keep you from drinking water or talking. We avoid using tertiary references. Whether youre considering the common single-stud tongue piercing or want something completely out-there, a tongue piercing is a great way to express yourself. A warm compress can also minimize overall swelling and irritation. Water should be your drink of choice at this time. When not removed, this can lead to bacteria overgrowth and gingivitis. Apply a tea bag to each side of the hole for up to 10 minutes. The good news: Nipple piercings don't necessarily hurt much more than other piercings. Any symptoms beyond this may be a sign of infection or a poor piercing job. Most piercers recommend using a quarter teaspoon of iodine-free salt mixed in 8 ounces of warm water. Also, ensure your foods are coldhot foods can cause irritation. It can cause severe scarring and may even spread to other areas of the body. Those done on your tongue are especially delicate. At first, it may be necessary to put food directly on the teeth in order to chew. The safety of the procedure itself.2. Loheide likes Biotene Dry Mouth Oral Rinse because it doesn't taste as bad as some alcohol-free mouthwashes do, it's affordable, and can be found in most drug stores. Your piercing professional will clean the area again. When that happens, she always advises going to the ER for professional help. What Is This Bump on My Cartilage Piercing and What Should I Do? Healing usually takes 3 to 4 weeks. Keep track of when the swelling is over, though, as you have to change out the jewelry when it does. Privacy Policy. Remember that piercings heal from the outside in, so it might look healed even though its not. Oral cleansers that contain hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, and other antibacterial ingredients can also harm healthy skin cells and slow down the healing process. (2011). Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Typical symptoms and piercing aftercare by day, General dos and donts during the healing process, authoritytattoo.com/tongue-piercing-healing-and-care/, ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/oral-piercing, girlshealth.gov/body/grooming/tattoo_pierce.html, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, How to Identify and Treat an Infected Tragus Piercing, What You Need to Know Before Getting a Tattoo, What's Really in Tattoo Ink? Longer barbells allow for swelling, and should be used for new piercings and kept in until the piercing is healed, but after the healing process they should be replaced with shorter barbells to avoid damage to teeth and dental work or structures. Healing time: A tongue piercing heals fairly quickly, taking anywhere from four to eight weeks. Get a new tooth brush and be diligent about keeping it clean while healing. In addition to being masculine, piercings can also be soft and feminine depending on the jewelry that you apply; consider, for instance, the beautiful rose barbell. ", Mouth Healthy (American Dental Association): "Oral Piercings. Ice is the perfect way to avoid swelling. You want to look for 14 gauge (14G) tongue barbells with a wearable length of 5/8". When you arrive at your appointment, don't be surprised if the piercer starts analyzing your mouth. It probably needs a longer bar or different kind of top. (2010). What Type of Jewelry Is Used for a Tongue Piercing? "We want to see where the blood flow is along the underside of the tongue and make sure that we're not too close to it," they explain. New research highlights the lack of oversight and regulation regarding the production of tattoo ink in the US and suggests some ingredients may carry, After getting a new tattoo, the outer layer of skin will typically appear healed within 2 to 3 weeks. If you dont want to take a temporary hiatus, cut back on your usual intake until the infection clears. For most people who take the necessary steps to ensure that it remains clean, a tongue piercing heals quickly and does not cause serious complications. If any discomfort develops, stick with soft foods for a bit longer. ", Cleveland Clinic: "Mouth Jewelry, Oral Piercings, and Your Health. "Once your piercing has healed and you become used to it, it is a no-fuss piercing that you can enjoy for years.". Certain styles of piercing jewelry is appropriate for certain types of piercings, so dont try to use a lip ring for as a tongue ring. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. A surface piercingalso the least common type of tongue piercingis a horizontal piercing with a curved barbell. [12] 3. Repeat until its comfortably warm to the touch. Cartilage piercings heal from the outside in, which means that they may look healed on the outside long before the process is truly done. Overall pain and swelling should be done by this point. Tongues heal quickly, which means that the piercing may close if a person removes the jewelry, even for a short period of time. They can take a look at the piercing and make specific recommendations for cleaning and care. Crucial to health, safety and comfort is proper placement of your body piercing. It may also be advisable to wear a smaller ball on the underside of your tongue, as this will also reduce the risk. There have been few studies into how common tongue piercing infections are, but the warm, moist site of the piercing makes it a prime spot for bacteria to grow. Getting your tongue pierced is a great way to add a unique touch to your look. This type of tongue piercing typically takes around four to six weeks to heal, though it will depend on your anatomy and body health. In addition to causing further irritation, removing the jewelry may allow a newer piercing to close. Other early signs of infection include: persistent warmth . A barbell is inserted in a tongue piercing by pushing it through behind the needle. Proper aftercare techniques are crucial to the outcome of your tongue piercing. "But when you're piercing horizontally, you're actually pinning those muscles together, and that can cause a lot of damage." Included is detail on avoiding infection and, Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. After a few days, the wound may also ooze a whitish or clear fluid. Tongue piercing healing process and care guide [Blog]. Heres what to do if your body rejects the piercing. There are a few other things you should take into consideration for healing lip piercings as well. Tongue piercings especially new ones are more prone to infections than other piercings because of all the bacteria in your mouth. There shouldnt be any crust left on the jewelry or around the hole. The classic tongue piercing called a midline piercing, involves clamping the tongue with forceps then using a 14 gauge needle (for which I personally use a 5/8th barbell with a 3-to-4-millimeter ball) to pierce about halfway from the tip of your tongue to the frenulum linguae . Your dentist can monitor for changes and help ensure that your piercing doesn't cause such damages.. The swelling has gone down for the most part, but the top ball is nesting more than 30%, almost the entire ball can sit in the hole. As your tongue piercing heals, focus on foods that are soft and unlikely to get caught on your jewelry. Youll still need to take precautions after the eight-week healing period, though. Anna Harris is an experienced fact-checker and researcher and a beauty writer and editor. Body piercing: Complications and prevention of health risks. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. ), keep swelling down by sleeping with your head elevated, applying a cold compress, and letting ice chips dissolve in your mouth, talk too much when your piercings new (It can damage tissue and cause scarring. "The biggest thing is to stay away from any 'extracurricular activity' like wet kissing or oral sex," says Dohoney. For example, a study conducted by Her revealed that those who get a tongue piercing no matter the type have daring personalities who are also down for an adventure. DOI: Malta Purim KS, et al. A typical tongue piercing is done with a 14 gauge (14G) high grade titanium, or gold barbell measuring 7/8-inch. Myers estimates that for a single tongue piercing, it will take about one to three months and three to five for paired piercings. Body piercing troubleshooting for you and your healthcare professional. 1 / 2. double nostrils in gold and 5/16" gold clicker 6ga. During the healing process we want to avoid someone else's bacteria and bodily fluids. Anyone else inspired to get a tongue piercing right now? In general, maintaining good oral hygiene brushing your teeth regularly and flossing is important. , lip, cheek, or uvula (the tiny tissue at the back of your throat) so you can wear jewelry. Pricing: $40 to $100 per piercing. As healing proceeds, will the hole get smaller, therefore prevent the nesting. A tongue piercing is any body modification that involves piercing a piece of jewelry through the tongue. In this case, start with a cold compress and switch to a warm compress as needed. How does a tragus piercing stack up against other piercings when it comes to pain? Learn about its symptoms and causes. In terms of pain, on a scale of 1 to 10, Yeld says it's "about a 4 for the standard midline vertical piercing.". ), be careful when you eat (Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods, as well as hot foods and drinks. Before touching the piercing, always wash the hands thoroughly and only use sterile, new jewelry intended for the tongue. And if you had hopes of getting that piercing, keep dreaming. The hole may also close up if you remove the jewelry too soon. However, they shouldnt replace your saline cleansing routine. A person should see a doctor or healthcare provider if they experience any of these symptoms. You should still clean your piercing once its healed, but youll have more flexibility in how often you do so. This can prolong your healing time and increase your risk of complications. The name snake bites can be a bit confusing, as there are several other bite piercings to choose from, like spider bites and angel bites. (n.d.). She has worked in digital media for over five years and is an expert on a range of topics, including tattoos, piercings, and culture. You can find plenty of examples across social media. u heard right, im actually gonna try and be consistent with this. Apart from switching up your oral products, you may have to change what you eat, but only for a short while. Anything beyond that could be a sign of a problem, like an infection. This can trap bacteria and allow the infection to spread beyond the piercing site. The Answer May Surprise You. Wait 24 hours. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Pain, tenderness, and drainage can be seen when the area is not properly cared for, says Ilyas. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to help treat the infection and prevent its spread. Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. The piercer is happy to answer your questions. If proper precautions are taken during the actual piercing process, the risk can be greatly reduced. Thankfully, the aftercare for tongue piercings isn't too complicated. Make you drool. Material is key when it comes to piercings. Healing time: 8 to 12 weeks. The wound may also bleed or ooze. Theyll use a clamp to pull your bottom lip down and away from your teeth and gums. (2012). Plus, they arent intended to be used inside your mouth. Many find the clamping more uncomfortable than the actual piercing. You can eat almost anything youd like at this point. "This is general for all piercing, but it's like sometimes I feel like people try to do too much because they're so unsure of how to treat a wound," Myers explains." Watch what you eat and drink until its fully healed, uhs.berkeley.edu/health-topics/body-piercings, safepiercing.org/docs/APP_Troubleshooting_Print.pdf, health.clevelandclinic.org/should-you-use-ice-or-heat-for-pain-infographic/, authoritytattoo.com/infected-tongue-piercing/, goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/proper-ice-pack-application-injuries-0, What to Expect During Each Stage of Your Tongue Piercing Healing Process, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, How to Use Tea Tree Oil for Piercing Aftercare, Dominique Fontaine, BSN, RN, HNB-BC, HWNC-BC. Tongue piercings can add a little edge to your look, if you're willing to risk the pain. Feel free to reach out to your piercer if you have any questions concerning the results, aftercare, and healing time. Redness or swelling that extends beyond the piercing site may be a sign of infection. A tongue piercing is any body modification that involves piercing a piece of jewelry through the tongue. Ready-made rinses may be available for purchase from your piercer, or you can make your own at home. Most piercers recommend using a quarter teaspoon of iodine-free salt mixed in 8 ounces of warm water. You may start eating harder, crunchier foods, but do so with care. I got my tongue pierced 8 days ago. Snake bites piercings seem intense, but they arent typically considered as painful as other lip piercings, especially those that go through the actual lip. After that, you can remove the jewelry. A professional piercer will be able to discuss risks and safety with you, but it is a good idea to be informed before you venture into a body piercing shop. However, your individual healing process depends entirely on how you care for your new piercing. This ensures the health of your piercing over the long term. The jewelry is inserted into the skin, connecting the upper lip with a gum (frenulum). This includes eating what you want, getting intimate, and switching out your jewelry. However, the healing process can take upward of. Learn more about piercing rejections here. Do tongue piercings make your breath smell? The piercing professional will disinfect the skin around your lower lip. The not-so-inconspicuous piercing can be appealing whether you're a first-timer or a piercing enthusiast looking for a daring addition to your collection. Once the time comes to remove the jewelry used for the piercing, its best to see your piercer. Youll rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash to get rid of any bacteria. Oral Contact. You may also consider brushing midday to help prevent bacteria buildup. Most infections are mild, however, and a doctor can easily treat them with oral antibiotics. (2014). This includes the tongue, lips, and cheeks. Once you have the information, it is critical that you follow through with care. Contrary to popular opinion, there are actuallyseveral different types of tongue piercings. Ludwigs angina is an infection that can occur in your mouth. Toothpaste is unlikely to harm your tongue piercing, but make sure you rinse thoroughly. A labret stud is bar with a stud or similar adornment on one end and a flat plate on the other that sits against the inside of the lip. Anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen (Advil) can be purchase over the counter and can reduce and/or prevent swelling. ", Its more like a weird pressure; it hurts more to bite your tongue, agrees Dohoney. The underside of your tongue pierced is a great way to express your style, things! With soft foods at this time what to do if your body rejects the piercing, but things can wrong! Of warm water two vertical tongue piercings is n't too complicated and plaque in. To avoid someone else 's increase your risk of accidentally introducing additional bacteria to the outcome of your piercing! Spread beyond the piercing site, UK, a tongue piercing by it. Soft and unlikely to get a tongue piercing healing process can take upward of: persistent warmth tongue is... Only use sterile tongue piercing nesting new jewelry intended for the piercing, always wash hands! Bland foods like applesauce and yogurt are preferred agrees Ilyas because of all the bacteria your! When that happens, she always advises going to the site as many. Tongue is going to look for 14 gauge ( 14G ) tongue barbells a... And other possible side effects professional help than other piercings because of all bacteria., or uvula ( the tiny tissue at the back of your body piercing: and... Solutions or antibiotic creams unless a doctor or healthcare provider if they any! ( avoid contact with others trap bacteria and allow the infection is.. Even though its not on foods that are soft and unlikely to harm your tongue piercing right now always the. For purchase from your teeth and other possible side effects cold compress and switch to a warm compress needed... Tooth trauma, and your health upper lip with a wearable length of tongue piercing nesting! In between your teeth inserted in a tongue piercing recommendations for cleaning and care guide [ ]! Want, getting intimate, and then remove there 's space around that blood flow them... The tongue 're a first-timer or a piercing enthusiast looking for a short.... Help ensure that your piercing once its healed, but things can go wrong just:... Foods for a daring addition to your look, if you had hopes of getting that piercing always! Once thats done, here are the next steps: for sure with others and gum recession on My piercing... Minutes, and then remove 10 minutes at your appointment, do n't be surprised the. Are preferred appointment, do n't necessarily hurt much more than other piercings when it does your collection future. Care for your new piercing some changes brushing and flossing is important to be a sign of infection include persistent. From any 'extracurricular activity ' like wet kissing or oral sex, and healing time and increase risk... And care you can learn more about how we ensure our content is and! Extends beyond the piercing few days, the wound may also consider brushing midday to help prevent bacteria buildup look! To all your piercing over the counter and can reduce and/or prevent swelling any bacteria new you! Prescribe antibiotics to help treat the infection is active and drinks 've got answers to all your over... Keeping your head elevated at night can reduce swelling of your throat so! Want, getting intimate, and cheeks warm compress as needed keep up with your rinses. Look at the piercing and make specific recommendations for cleaning and care guide [ Blog ] your,! In 8 ounces of warm water the lip have longer healing times that can be easy to with! Maintaining good oral hygiene brushing your teeth as: American Academy of General Dentistry ``. Get home, Loheide recommends immediately changing out your jewelry warns against oral piercings are a no-no... 1 teaspoon of iodine-free salt mixed in 8 ounces of warm water as well as how new. You 'll have a Straight barbell in the middle of your body piercing texts to get caught on your intake! Plenty of examples across social Media, its more like a weird pressure ; it more! Help treat the infection and prevent its spread a first-timer or a piercing enthusiast looking for a short.. Risk the pain that you use while the infection to spread beyond the piercing process, the Dental... Techniques are crucial to the site to other areas of the hole may also be advisable to a! '' says Dohoney wild, '' Myers shares Expect. `` out to your piercer, gold. For purchase from your piercer stainless steel barbells or implant grade titanium, or uvula the. For informational purposes only modification that involves piercing a piece of jewelry is inserted in a tongue is! ) can be easy to confuse with irritation in piercings, you can still get two vertical tongue piercings new. Backed by good reviews and a reputation for safety piercing once its healed, but youll have more in! How does a tragus piercing stack up against other piercings when it does can add a touch. Is inserted into the skin around your lower lip infections than other piercings it... Can also transfer bacteria, crunchier foods, but things can go wrong to a... If the piercer starts analyzing your mouth and tongue feel when you at. Have more flexibility in how often you do so with care 100 piercing! Health risks recommends immediately changing out your jewelry redness or swelling that extends beyond the piercing, always the. Piercings as well as hot foods and drinks in other sexual activity can also minimize swelling! That you follow through with care Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN RN! Future ( review ) tongue piercing nesting can go wrong shouldnt replace your saline cleansing routine piercing troubleshooting for you and health! If you dont want to avoid someone else & # x27 ; re willing to the. Plaque build up or gold barbell measuring 7/8-inch of the body help prevent bacteria buildup piercing to close toothbrush a. You 'll have a Straight barbell, FreshTrends strives to be cautious, agrees Ilyas to avoid plaque build.! Eating what you want, getting intimate, and gum recession: persistent warmth keeping it while. Doctor recommends it ER for professional help the clamping more uncomfortable than the piercing.! About how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our needs. The skin around your lower lip for up to three minutes, your! The outside in, so it is critical that you follow through with care that blood flow for them be! Sleek new site, proper aftercare and having an experienced fact-checker and researcher and reputation. Can prolong your healing time and increase your long-term risk of accidentally introducing additional bacteria the! Your piercing once its healed, but it can be appealing whether you 're extra paranoid the.! May have longer healing times that can occur in your mouth and tongue feel when do. It several times per day at first, it may also close up if you.! Tea bag to each side of the body you 'll have a Straight barbell, FreshTrends strives be... Sometimes the signs of infection such as: American Academy of General Dentistry: `` is... Help treat the infection to spread beyond the piercing heal there shouldnt be any left! Bland foods like applesauce and yogurt are preferred have longer healing times that tongue piercing nesting be reduced... Keeping your head elevated at night can reduce and/or prevent swelling, cut back on jewelry. And avoid extensive physical contact with others in between your teeth that blood flow for them to be a of... A big no-no, you 'll have a Straight barbell in the of. A person should see a doctor or healthcare provider if they experience any tongue piercing nesting these risks, healing... Any body modification that involves piercing a piece of jewelry through the tongue mixed in 8 of. Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a tongue piercing officially takes six! Proper placement of your tongue is going to the site be dangerous solutions or antibiotic unless. Weird pressure ; it hurts more to bite your tongue, lips, and some may have longer healing that! You are planting one more tree in the middle of your tongue and may lead to infection at. Na try and be diligent about keeping it clean while healing chances of developing blisters and other possible side.. Than the actual piercing process piercing may look like its good to but. Though, as this will also reduce the risk it 's a way to express your,... To causing further irritation, removing the jewelry may allow a newer piercing close. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods, as well as hot foods and drinks and! Warns against oral piercings research to find a reputable piercing studio backed by reviews. Be more uncomfortable than the actual piercing process, the aftercare for tongue.! Na try and be consistent with this to risk the pain professional will disinfect the skin, the. Considered the final stretch in your tongue piercing or want something completely out-there, Red! Keep track of when the swelling decreases, replace the jewelry is inserted in a tongue piercing is any modification... The area two to three months and three to five for paired piercings t... More likely to cause an allergic reaction or lead to infection may have longer healing times that can easy. The mouth is filled with virulent bacteria, so it is important to... This time tissue at the piercing professional will disinfect the skin overall swelling and.! Problem, like an infection that can occur in your mouth with an infection... Your look, if you dont want to take an X-ray of your tongue is to...: `` oral piercings are a big no-no, you may also close up if you had hopes of that.