Commentary--Oral piercings, potential dangers

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Lisa Sanders
  • 48th Dental Squadron
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Some people feel that lip and tongue piercings are a harmless form of individualism or self-expression. People often get these piercings in their adolescent or young adult years with the intention of removing them later. However, damage caused by these piercings can have long-lasting effects.

People with oral piercings are at an increased risk for infection and allergies. Sterilization and sanitation methods used in piercing parlors need to be checked, as a client could be put at risk for contracting HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and C. It is important to remember that most employees of piercing parlors do not have any formal training with sterilization methods and blood-borne pathogens.

As the mouth is a harbor for bacterial growth, any piercing holes are susceptible to bacterial infections. There is also potential to develop allergies to the metal used in the piercing ornaments. Nerve damage and excessive bleeding are other possible adverse outcomes of oral piercings. Nerve damage can result in permanent numbness or paralysis of the tongue.

Metal tongue rings have great potential to chip teeth. In a study conducted at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, 47 percent of patients that had worn tongue piercings for more than four years had chipped teeth. Although still not safe, plastic causes less damage to the teeth than metal.

Airway obstruction can be a deadly consequence. Infection or allergies can cause the tongue to swell and block the passage of the airways. Accidental swallowing of embellishments may cause choking and become lodged in the lungs.

Fifty percent of people who have worn oral piercings for two years have localized gum recession caused by pressure of the piercing ornament. Gum recession is irreversible. Tooth sensitivity is commonly experienced due to root exposure; however, what is happening under the gum surface is of extreme importance. As the gums recede, the alveolar bone, which supports the roots of the teeth, also recedes. Tooth loss can result due to lack of bone support.

Piercing parlors very commonly do not warn their clients of all the possible negative outcomes of oral piercings. Anyone considering such a procedure should consult with a dental professional first. Dental professionals can provide factual information so an informed decision can be made.