Individuals who pierce the lips, cheeks, or tongue are participating in oral piercing. Those who purchase these piercing are doing so because they wish to express themselves in an artful way.

They however are exposing themselves to dental health risks when piercing the cheek, lip or tongue if they do so without consulting their dentist first.

There are many health risks associated with oral piercing including infection, prolonged bleeding, pain and swelling, chipped or cracked teeth, injury to gums, interference with oral function, blood-borne diseases, and endocarditis.

Before you consent to receive an oral piercing you should learn about the risks you would be taking.

Inside your mouth are millions of bacteria, any of which can lead to infection if you have an oral piercing. Individuals with oral piercing also often handle the jewelry once it has been placed in the mouth, a habit that will increase the chance for oral infection.  Read more...