Dangers of Tongue Piercing

Body modifications have become very popular in recent years with tongue piercings becoming among the most common. While wearers may find them aesthetically pleasing and trendy, there are in fact many dangers associated with tongue piercings that you may want to know before deciding if one is right for you.

1.       Risk of infection – Our mouths are abundant with all types of bacteria that can cause infections at the piercing site. Additionally we risk introducing more bacteria into our mouths whenever we handle the jewelry.

2.      Endocarditis – This potentially fatal condition results when bacteria enter the bloodstream and causes inflammation of the heart or its valves in those who already have underlying heart ailments. Bacteria are able to enter the bloodstream through the wound in the tongue.

3.      Damage to teeth – If your jewelry constantly knocks against the teeth the end result could be your teeth chipping or cracking.

4.      Uncomfortable mouth feel – Tongue piercings cause wearers to produce an excess amount of saliva making it harder to chew and swallow as well as speak properly.

5.      Prevalence of gum disease – People who have word tongue piercings for extended periods are at a higher risk for gum disease since jewelry that comes into contact with the gum line can cause contusions and receding gums. If left unchecked, receding gums can lead to tooth loss.

6.      Nerve damage – Those who have had their tongues pierced can experience numbness at the site of the piercing. In some cases, the piercing site is slow to heal and there is prolonged bleeding.

7.      Swallowing or aspirating jewelry – Jewelry can become lose in the mouth without the wearer’s knowledge which can lead to it being swallowed or aspirated – dangerous possibilities that can lead to serious illness or even death.

If you still decide to get a tongue piercing despite the dangers be sure to take steps that would lessen your chances of negative consequences. For example, make sure to ask around for recommendations when searching for parlors. Also visit the parlor before hand to assess for yourself its cleanliness and that of its workers. Additionally, ask to see the parlor’s health certificates. They should be presented on request and up to date. Following the piercing, be sure to follow all after-care instructions and visit your doctor if any signs of infection occur such as pus, fever, increased redness or pain or prolonged bleeding.

There are many dangers associated with tongue piercing and as a result, it is best to be aware of all the associated risks. If you are injured because of your tongue piercing, you may need various periodontal procedures performed such as gum lifts and deep cleanings. Contact one of our dental health professionals today to find out how they can help you.

How do I know if I need LANAP?

Gum disease plagues several people on earth. Its treatment is often limited to root planning and scaling, as well as oral and topical antibiotics. Sometimes gums become diseased that they must be treated surgically by cutting away the affected portions of the gum tissues. This can be a very painful encounter and may end up altering the look and feel of your gum line and teeth. In spite of that, the LANAP technology now offers periodontists an alternative way of approaching gum disease instead of the traditional treatment technique of cutting away the soft tissues and allows dentists to manage gum disease without the need for surgical procedures.

What is LANAP?

The LANAP technology (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure) is an approved technique for treating and managing gum disease. It allows a periodontist to slowly and gradually pull off the gum away from the affected tooth in a bid to reveal the deep harbor sockets of bacteria that cause the tooth and gum line decay.  As soon as the dentist separates the gum from the affected tooth, this technology then allows killing of the diseased tissues as well as the bacteria.

It takes averagely four hours to perform the procedure effectively by dividing it into two sessions better than the traditional surgical alternative that takes up to 8 hours to finish. Expect no cutting with this technology nor are there any incisions or stitches that may complicate the recovery process. With the LANAP procedure, there is far less swelling, discomfort or pain experienced. Soft foods may however be required during the first few days after treatment. The healing process is ten times faster than the traditional gum surgery treatment.

How to tell if you need LANAP

LANAP is the best and safest form of treatment for patients with gum disease. However, sometimes it’s necessary to complete a dental consultation to help determine your specific qualifications. At first, it may be quite difficult to see the signs of periodontal disease, though ultimately you may begin seeing symptoms such as bleeding when brushing or flossing teeth as well as a receding gum line. Sometimes these gums become inflamed and red, and the loss may lead to loss of gum tissues that surround the teeth. Eventually, teeth become loose as a result. One other obvious sign of periodontal disease is a perpetual bad breath that does not disappear despite efforts to floss, brush or rinse with a mouthwash.

Is LANAP Safe?

This technique is very safe, as long as it is performed by a qualified and trained periodontist with experience in the LANAP technology. In fact, it is even safer for patients with other health complications such as hemophilia, HIV, diabetes or any other health problem in which bleeding or an infection could be potentially severe.  Once you complete the LANAP procedure and the healing process, it is necessary to maintain high standards of oral health so as to prevent any further reoccurrences of gum disease. Proper home hygiene coupled with routine dentist checkups are enough to get you going.