A General Dentist Discusses The Hazards Of Oral Piercings

Piercings are popular among teenagers and young adults, but did you know that an oral piercing can also affect your dental health? Oral piercings can lead to tooth damage, infections, and nerve damage. Here is how!

Infection

Oral infections are a common risk associated with getting an oral piercing. The gums, cheeks, tongue, and teeth can become infected from bacteria entering the body through the mouth. If an infection is severe enough, an abscess may form at the pierced site. Signs of an infected oral piercing include redness, swelling, pain, fever, and drainage from the piercing itself. If you suspect you have an infected oral piercing, you should contact your dentist right away for treatment recommendations. An infection that goes untreated can eventually lead to tooth loss in extreme cases.

Tooth damage

Oral jewelry can chip teeth, erode enamel, and damage gums. These problems can lead to tooth decay and the need for restorative treatments such as fillings, crowns, root canals, and dental implants. When patients neglect their oral health or fail to seek prompt treatment to address tooth damage, they risk tooth loss.

Gum disease

Opening your mouth to bite down on a barbell or other adornment can lead to gum recession. Once gums have receded, the gums are more vulnerable to infection and decay. Your teeth may also shift as you lose bone support. Routine exams and cleanings are especially important for patients with oral piercings.

Damage to gums and teeth

Oral piercings often result in cracked or chipped teeth, which will require cosmetic treatment like veneers to fix. Another major concern is damage to your teeth and gums. Piercings can cut or damage the gums and surrounding soft tissues. Plus, the metal in your jewelry can rub against your gums and cause gum recession, which can lead to other oral health problems. 

Facial trauma

An oral piercing can chip or crack your teeth, leading to tooth pain and even breaking a tooth in half. A chipped tooth can cause sensitivity around the affected area, and the tooth may need restorative treatment, such as a dental crown. Additionally, having a foreign object in your mouth puts you at increased risk of infection. Oral piercings can increase your risk of contracting herpes simplex virus type-2, a potentially life-threatening infection that causes cold sores and can infect your eyes and brain.

If you have an oral piercing, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. We will examine your mouth to check for damage. Keep in mind that some procedures will need to be postponed until your jewelry is removed, such as teeth whitening. If you wait to remove the piercing, we will need to take extra precautions to ensure that your teeth and gums are protected during the procedure.

Visit Rosemont Dental Center, 2090 Old Farm Dr #C, Frederick, MD 21702, or contact the Dentist in Frederick, MD, by calling us at (301) 663-1144 to learn more about oral health and stress.