Oral piercings such as tongue, lip, and frenulum piercings; can be bold, expressive, and beautiful. They’ve been a part of body modification culture for decades, and when done safely by a qualified professional, they can be a great way to express yourself. But like any piercing, they come with specific risks. Particularly because of their location inside the mouth.

If you’re thinking about getting an oral piercing, it’s important to understand the potential downsides. Especially those that can affect your long-term dental health.

Gum and Tooth Damage: A Real Risk

One of the most serious concerns with oral piercings is damage to your teeth and gums. Unlike piercings on other areas of the body, oral piercings are in constant motion. Talking, eating, and even sleeping can cause jewelry to rub against your teeth and gum line.

Some of the most common issues include:

  • Gum Recession: When jewelry repeatedly presses or rubs against the gums (especially lower lip and tongue piercings), it can wear the tissue away. This recession can expose the root of the tooth, increase sensitivity, and in severe cases, lead to tooth loss.
  • Chipped or Cracked Teeth: Metal or hard jewelry in the mouth can hit your teeth, especially with tongue piercings. Over time, this repeated contact can lead to chips or cracks in the enamel or even full fractures that require dental work.
  • Enamel Wear: Even if no obvious damage occurs at first, long-term wear can erode the enamel that protects your teeth, leaving them more vulnerable to cavities and decay.

Other Risks to Consider

In addition to oral health issues, there are other complications that can arise from piercings inside or around the mouth:

  • Swelling: Tongue piercings in particular can swell significantly during the initial healing phase.
  • Difficulty Eating and Speaking: You may experience temporary changes in how you speak, chew, or swallow as your body adjusts to the new jewelry.
  • Infection: The mouth is home to a large amount of bacteria, which increases the risk of infection if proper aftercare isn’t followed.
  • Nerve Damage: There is a small but real chance of temporary or even permanent nerve damage—especially in the tongue—if a piercing hits the wrong spot.

Safe Practices and Long-Term Care

If you choose to get an oral piercing, there are a few things you can do to reduce risks:

  • Downsize Your Jewelry: Initial jewelry is often longer to accommodate swelling. Once that goes down (typically after a couple of weeks), it’s important to return to your piercer to switch to a shorter post. This reduces the amount of movement in the mouth and helps prevent contact with gums and teeth.
  • Choose Appropriate Jewelry: Quality jewelry made from implant-grade materials like titanium or niobium is a must. Avoid cheap or poorly made pieces, and always opt for something designed for oral use.
  • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth and rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash regularly. Avoid playing with or chewing on your jewelry, and see your dentist for routine checkups.

A Note on “Snake Eyes” Piercings

While we’re on the subject, it’s important to mention one specific oral piercing I do not offer: the snake eyes tongue piercing. This horizontal piercing through the tip of the tongue carries a high risk of damaging muscles, nerves, and teeth. It also prevents independent movement of the tongue, which can interfere with speech and normal function. Because of these serious complications, many reputable piercers (myself included) will not perform this piercing.

Final Thoughts

Oral piercings can be a unique and stylish form of self-expression. But they come with real risks (especially to your teeth and gums). If you’re considering one, make sure you’re seeing a professional piercer who can guide you through proper placement, safe jewelry, and responsible aftercare. And don’t forget to follow up for downsizing!

Questions or concerns about an oral piercing you already have or want? Reach out. I’m always happy to offer guidance.