What do Dentists Think of Oral Piercings?
Oral piercings, whether on the tongue, lips, or other parts of the mouth, have gained popularity in recent years as a form of self-expression. However, while they may look cool, oral piercings come with some significant health risks, especially when it comes to your teeth and gums. Dentists are generally concerned about the potential for damage and often advise against oral piercings due to these risks. But what exactly do dental professionals think about oral piercings when determining their advice and warnings?
Oral Piercings Increase the Risk of Infection
One of the most significant concerns dentists have with oral piercings is the increased risk of infection. The mouth is full of bacteria, which can be both good and bad. This can quickly infiltrate the site of a piercing. Dentists often point out that oral piercings create an open wound, providing a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the body. This makes infections particularly common after oral piercings, especially within the first few weeks when the tissue is still healing.
Signs of infection can range from swelling, redness, and discharge to more severe symptoms such as fever and swollen lymph nodes. In extreme cases, oral infections can spread to other parts of the body. For instance, if bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream, it can lead to a serious condition known as endocarditis, which involves inflammation of the heart valves.
Because of this risk, dentists emphasize the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if signs of infection appear. For those who choose to get an oral piercing, dentists recommend taking extra precautions. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, using alcohol-free mouthwash, and flossing, is essential to minimize the risk of infection. Despite these precautions, dentists still urge patients to carefully consider whether the risks are worth it.
Damaged Teeth Are a Common Concern
Oral piercings, especially tongue piercings, have a high potential for damaging teeth. Dental professionals frequently encounter patients who have chipped or cracked their teeth due to the constant contact between oral jewelry and the teeth. The tongue, being one of the most active muscles in the body, constantly moves, and piercings like barbells or rings can strike the teeth repeatedly. This contact can erode tooth enamel, leading to increased sensitivity, cavities, and fractures.
Over time, these small impacts can result in significant damage, and once enamel is worn down, it cannot regenerate. Dentists will sometimes particularly warn individuals with dental restorations such as crowns, fillings, or veneers to avoid oral piercings, as the jewelry can cause these restorations to break or loosen. Even individuals without pre-existing dental work are at risk of severe damage from oral piercings.
Some patients believe that careful behavior, such as avoiding playing with their piercings, can prevent damage, but dentists caution that even inadvertent movements of the tongue or lip can cause harm. In fact, dentists say that many patients don’t even realize the extent of the damage until it’s too late. Regular dental visits can help catch early signs of wear or damage, but dentists generally advise against oral piercings if you want to maintain the integrity of your teeth in the long term.
Gum Recession and Bone Loss Can Occur
Gum recession is another common issue linked to oral piercings, and it’s one that dental professionals take seriously. When metal jewelry constantly rubs against the gum tissue, it can cause the gums to recede. Once gum tissue is lost, it does not grow back, leaving the roots of your teeth exposed. This exposure makes your teeth more vulnerable to decay, sensitivity, and other periodontal issues.
According to dentists, this is particularly problematic with piercings located near the gums, such as lip or cheek piercings. However, tongue piercings can also contribute to gum recession when the metal jewelry repeatedly strikes the gums. In addition to gum loss, these piercings can also lead to bone loss around the teeth over time. If the gum tissue recedes far enough, it can weaken the bone that supports your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.
Dentists strongly advise against oral piercings if you already have gum disease or other periodontal issues. Even in healthy individuals, piercings can accelerate gum problems, leading to expensive and sometimes irreversible damage. If you notice your gums receding or becoming inflamed, it’s crucial to visit your dentist immediately for an evaluation and possible treatment. In many cases, the best course of action is to remove the piercing to prevent further damage.
Oral Piercings Can Lead to Broader Health Issues
In addition to oral health problems, dentists are concerned about the broader health implications of oral piercings. For instance, the mouth is an ideal environment for bacterial growth due to its warmth and moisture, making it easy for infections to develop. When these infections are left untreated, they can spread beyond the mouth, leading to serious health complications.
One particularly concerning risk is the possibility of bacteria from the mouth entering the bloodstream, potentially causing life-threatening conditions like endocarditis. This condition is characterized by inflammation of the heart valves, and it often requires hospitalization and intensive antibiotic treatment.
Other risks associated with oral piercings include hepatitis and other bloodborne diseases, which can result from unsterilized equipment during the piercing procedure. Additionally, dentists caution that oral piercings can interfere with normal oral functions. Tongue piercings, in particular, can lead to difficulty speaking, chewing, and swallowing, especially during the healing period. Prolonged swelling can also obstruct the airway, making it difficult to breathe. Some patients experience hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to the metals used in oral jewelry, further complicating their health.
Given the wide range of health risks, dentists recommend removing oral jewelry before any medical or dental procedures to reduce the chances of infection or complications. If you experience any prolonged swelling, difficulty breathing, or signs of an allergic reaction, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
While oral piercings may seem like a fun and fashionable way to express yourself, dentists have many valid concerns about the potential risks. From infections and damaged teeth to gum recession, bone loss, and even life-threatening complications, the dangers of oral piercings are not to be taken lightly. Dental professionals recommend that anyone considering an oral piercing carefully weigh these risks against the potential benefits.
For those who already have oral piercings, diligent care is crucial. This includes maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding playing with the piercing, and visiting the dentist regularly for checkups. Even with the best care, however, oral piercings can still cause permanent damage to your teeth, gums, and overall health. If you’re unsure whether an oral piercing is worth the risks, it’s always a good idea to consult with your dentist for personalized advice.
In the end, the consensus among dentists is clear: while oral piercings may be trendy, the health risks do outweigh the aesthetic appeal.
New Beginnings Dentistry is your home for dental advice in any situation. Schedule an appointment with us today!