Risks of Tongue Piercings for Teens
In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of teenagers opting for tongue piercings. Often seen as a harmless form of self-expression, many teens view tongue piercings as a temporary fashion statement since the metal bar can be removed. Additionally, since tongue piercings are less visible compared to tattoos or eyebrow piercings, parents might be more willing to allow them.
However, what many teens and parents don’t realize is that tongue piercings can have serious consequences for health—some of which can even be life-threatening. Pediatric dentists, including the team at Sky Pediatric Dentistry in Glasgow, KY, strongly advise against intraoral or perioral piercings for several important reasons.
Why is Tongue Piercing Harmful?
There are multiple risks associated with tongue piercings that every parent and teen should consider:
Increased Risk of Infections: Many unlicensed piercing parlors are not held to health and safety standards. These parlors are a potential breeding ground for dangerous infections like tetanus, tuberculosis, and most commonly, hepatitis. Even licensed parlors can result in infections, such as bacterial infections and blood poisoning, if proper care is not taken.
Painful Conditions: Even when performed in a professional setting, complications from tongue piercings can include:
- Severe pain
- Blood clots
- Brain abscesses
- Trigeminal neuralgia (nerve damage)
- Fractured or cracked teeth
- Heart infections
- Swelling and hypersensitivity to the metal bar
- Periodontal disease and gum recession
- Difficulty speaking or enunciating clearly
- Scarring
Common Problems After Getting a Tongue Piercing
The process of getting a tongue piercing involves piercing a hollow needle through the tongue, securing the metal bar in place. This invasive procedure can result in:
- Severe Pain and Swelling: These symptoms are common and can last for several days after the procedure.
- Increased Risk of Infection: The oral cavity is home to many types of bacteria, which makes pierced tongues highly susceptible to infections.
- Excessive Saliva Production: Your body might react to the foreign object by producing more saliva, which can be uncomfortable.
Long-term Problems Associated With Tongue Piercings
While the short-term effects are already concerning, the long-term risks are even more serious:
- Dental Damage: The metal bar in a tongue piercing can repeatedly scrape against teeth, making them more prone to decay and causing gum recession.
- Infections and Tissue Damage: The constant friction of the piercing can lead to infections in the soft tissue of the mouth.
- Piercing Injury: If the tongue bar is too long, it can get tangled in the tongue or teeth. The piercing can even be ripped out, causing excruciating pain and potentially requiring emergency care.
Given these risks, both the American Dental Association (ADA) and pediatric dentists recommend avoiding oral piercings entirely.
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