If you are considering getting an oral piercing, then there are some things that you need to take into consideration – and not just what type of jewellery you want. Oral piercings can leave you vulnerable to a whole host of oral health problems so it is essential to get advice and speak to your dentist in Glasgow city centre before getting it.
Types of Oral Piercings
There are different types of oral piercings, the most popular of that being on the tongue but people also opt for piercings on their lips and around the mouth area. Here are some types of oral piercings that you can get;
Midline: along the middle (midline) of your tongue, which is one of the most common sites.
Frenulum: underneath tongue.
Tongue web: two tongue piercings placed side-by-side.
Horizontal: placed horizontally on the tongue.
Side tongue: placed on the side of the tongue.
Oral piercings are done with a needle and it is essential that this needle is clean and that the piercing site is also sterilised with antiseptic mouthwash before the piercing. If you are getting any sort of piercing but particularly oral, ensure that you go to a clean clinic with professionals that know what they’re doing.
Risks
There are many risks and health-related issues that are associated with oral piercings. There are many things that can potentially go wrong, including;
- Infections
- Endocarditis (inflammation of the heart)
- Nerve damage
- Damage to the teeth
- Difficulty in swallowing, speaking, chewing and moving your mouth
- Possibility of swallowing loose jewellery
- Allergic reaction to metal
- Gum disease
If you notice any negative changes in your oral health or have an issue, then don’t wait for your 6-month check-up, go visit your dentist in Glasgow city centre as soon as possible.
Aftercare
It is essential that you look after your new oral piercing so you don’t put yourself at risk of developing problems, such as the ones mentioned above. It’s essential to use an antiseptic mouthwash in the healing stages of your piercing to help ensure that food or other bacteria in your mouth doesn’t cause infection.
Some common signs of an oral infection include;
- Swelling
- Pain
- Fever
- Redness at the piercing area
- Chills
The metal jewellery can also cause issues when it comes to your teeth. For a while, in the beginning, you may accidentally hit your piercing off your teeth, it’s important to try and stop that as soon as possible as the metal can damage teeth by wearing away enamel and causing them to crack.
Where possible, remove any jewellery before playing sports and/or use a mouth guard.
When to Speak to Your Dentist in Glasgow City Centre
If you do have any issues with an oral piercing or with your oral health in general, then you need to speak with your dentist in Glasgow city centre. They can examine the issue and offer a solution if there is a problem.