Avoiding Dental Problems
A few temporary lifestyle changes can help prevent dental problems as a result of a tongue piercing. You should avoid chewing on non-food items such as gum, pencils, fingernails, tobacco and sunglasses. Substances like aspirin, caffeine and alcohol can increase swelling, bleeding and pain; you should avoid them during the healing process. For adventurous eaters, hot, spicy, salty and acidic foods are also on the list of no-go items while your tongue recovers.
Keep in mind playing with the jewelry and clicking or pushing it against the teeth can delay healing and cause dental problems like cracked or chipped teeth or receding gums. Some dentists say that a tongue piercing may fracture some types of restorations, such as crowns made of porcelain or porcelain and metal. In these cases, some dentists recommend acrylic balls or barbells, rather than metal ones.
Whether you’re looking to take care of an existing tongue piercing or you’re preparing yourself to get one in the future, we commend you for your commitment to taking care of your new bling. Although most dentists aren’t crazy about the idea of a foreign object being in your mouth, with proper care and careful attention, you can wear your tongue piercing proudly and still take care of your oral health.