If you are considering piercing your lip or tongue, this post from Future of Dentistry at Willows – North Andover is for you.
Please consider the following potential side effects:
Infection
Your mouth is full of bacteria. Any opening in the tissue carries the risk of infection. The germs from your tongue and mouth can easily get into your bloodstream. Dentists and doctors are continually treating acute infections caused by oral piercings. Oral infections can be a real problem and should be a major consideration before getting an oral piercing.
Tooth Damage
It should come as no surprise that having a piece of metal bang around in your mouth can easily damage tooth enamel. Though tooth enamel is amazingly strong, once it’s chipped or cracked, it can only be restored with artificial material. Fortunately, we offer many tooth restoration options such as crowns and fillings, but our advice is to avoid the problem if you can.
Prolonged Bleeding and Swelling
The blood vessels in the tongue are often damaged when the tongue is pierced, causing prolonged bleeding and possible build-up of scar tissue. In some extreme cases, the tongue swells up enough to block the airway.
Gum Recession
A number of studies have shown that wearing oral jewelry is linked to gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. Again, our advice is to avoid the dilemma right from the start.
These are just a few of the dangers or oral piercings. At Future of Dentistry at Willows – North Andover the oral health of each patient is always our top priority. Patients from Greater Boston and Merrimack Valley come to our office for complete general and cosmetic dentistry. Call to schedule an appointment with us today!
Contact Future of Dentistry:
Locations (Tap Below To Open Your Office In Google Maps):
Future of Dentistry – Billerica
668 Boston Rd
Billerica, MA 01821
978-663-4303Future of Dentistry – Dracut
149 Pleasant St
Dracut, MA 01826
978-957-1811Future of Dentistry – North Andover/Willows Dental Group
795 Turnpike St
North Andover, MA 01845
978-685-8313Future of Dentistry – Wakefield
968 Main St
Wakefield, MA 01880
781-245-2299Future of Dentistry – Chelmsford
3 Courthouse Ln
Chelmsford, MA 01824
978-970-2089