ORAL piercings are any piercing of the tongue, lips or cheek. In recent years it has become a form of self-expression — a body art.

Oral piercings are viewed as a harmless expression of one’s growing individuality, but it can be dangerous. Oral piercings can cause pain, swelling, infection, drooling, taste loss, scarring, chipped teeth, and tooth loss.

Most dentists discourage oral piercing due to the many risks involved. If you do decide to get an oral piercing, it is important to understand the regulations, associated problems and proper maintenance.

RISKS

You may not be aware of the potential side effects of oral piercings. These include:

1. Infection: Our mouths contain millions of bacteria which can lead to infection after an oral piercing. Handling jewellery once it has been placed in the mouth also increases your chances of getting an infection.

2. Prolonged bleeding: If a blood vessel is punctured by the needle during piercing, the result can be difficult-to-control bleeding and serious blood loss.

3. Pain and swelling: Pain and swelling are common symptoms of oral piercings. In extreme cases, a severely swollen tongue can actually close off the airway and restrict breathing.

4. Chipped or cracked teeth: Contact with oral jewellery can fracture teeth. Teeth that have restorations, such as crowns or caps, can also be damaged if the jewellery strikes them.

5. Injury to the gums: Not only can metal jewellery injure soft gum tissue, it can cause the gums to recede. In addition to looking unattractive, recessed gums leave your tooth root more vulnerable to decay and periodontal disease.

6. Interference with normal oral function: Jewellery in the mouth can cause excessive saliva flow, impede your ability to pronounce words correctly, and cause problems with chewing and swallowing.

7. Blood-borne diseases: Oral piercings have been identified by the National Institutes of Health as a possible factor in transmitting hepatitis B, C, D, and G.

8. Endocarditis: Oral piercing carries a risk of endocarditis — an inflammation of the heart valves or tissues. The wound created during oral piercing provides an opportunity for oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream, where they can travel to the heart.

As long as your mouth stays free of infection and your oral piercings do not interfere with normal function, they can stay in your mouth indefinitely. Just be sure to see your dentist at the first sign of pain or problems, in addition to your regular check-ups.

Because there are so many risks surrounding oral jewellery, even after the initial wound has healed, the safest decision you can make is to avoid oral piercings altogether. If you or your loved one has an oral piercing, proper oral hygiene and safety practices are important to stay safe and comfortable.

Because of the risks, the American Dental Association opposes the practice of oral piercings.

Dr Sharon Robinson DDS has offices at the Dental Place Cosmetix Spa located at Shop #5, Winchester Business Centre, 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10. Dr Robinson is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Technology, Jamaica, School of Oral Health Sciences. She may be contacted at 630-4710. Like their Facebook page, Dental Place Cosmetix Spa, for an opportunity to take advantage of weekly specials.