Piercing body tissue has been a fairly common type of
self-expression throughout the centuries and in many different cultures. Regardless
of how the detractors see the practice or how much the enthusiasts stick to
their guns, it cannot be denied that orofacial and other types of piercings do
present several potential health risks for piercers that they must at least
consider before going forward and also work to prevent after they’ve pierced
parts of their bodies. For those interested in orofacial piercings, here are a
few things to keep in mind.
Different Types of Orofacial
Piercings
Many types of piercings are considered to be orofacial, with
one of the more common areas being the tongue. Other potential piercing sites
around the face include around the chin, cheek, lip, as well as the uvula. Locations
can have single-hole piercings or multiple ones, though this depends on an individual's
desired appearance. Because an average piercing requires between six and eight
weeks to form a healing layer, it's crucial that piercers choose reputable
parlors.
Piercings are made with different types of metal, with surgical-grade
stainless steel said to be among the most compatible with body tissue. However,
acrylic resin, plastic, palladium, or solid gold can be used to fabricate the studs,
rings, and barbells that seal the holes created by a sterile needle. As well,
the jewelry a piercer chooses should be selected with equal care, avoiding pieces
that are worn, scratched, dull in appearance, or rough.
Effects on Tissue,
Teeth, and Restorations
As might be expected, orofacial piercings could considerably
affect existing teeth, restorations, and oral tissues. The hard plastics or metal
in piercing jewelry can wear down restorations and teeth unnecessarily, leading
to chips, abrasions, or fractures. Additionally, oral tissues can be affected if
piercings are near or go through glands, blood vessels, and nerves that support
the neck and head. According to the ADA, mouth piercings can result in
infections, allergic reactions, nerve damage, and damage to fillings, the
teeth, and gums if done poorly. You should also remember that nerve damage can
affect how your mouth moves as well as your sense of taste.
Piercings also pose a greater risk for scarring and infection
whenever proper care isn't followed. Because of this, piercing isn’t encouraged
until individuals are in their late teens at least due to the cellular healing
that occurs while the body is maturing. Scars that result from piercing can
vary considerably, but it should be noted that any kind of scarring shouldn’t
result from healthy piercings.
Caring for Orofacial
Piercings
Once you get your piercings, you become responsible for
cleaning and caring for the area, which is why piercing isn’t recommended for
individuals 15 and younger. A piercing’s effectiveness and safety depend on
regular handwashing and diligent aftercare, so use soapy, warm water to remove
residue and germs from fingers before you remove piercing jewelry. In the first
two weeks, jewelry needs to be cleaned twice per day at the very least.
If a piercing is around or in the mouth, you should use a bactericidal
rinse and germ-reducing toothpaste to clean the area following every meal or
twice daily. Using fresh soft-bristled toothbrushes as well as an antiseptic
mouthwash after each meal can help you avoid allowing bacteria to accrue and
infection to spread. Soft bristles, when coupled with antibacterial toothpaste,
can provide a gentle yet effective removal of food debris and germs that could cause
infection in fresh piercings if left unattended.
If you have a piercing and are concerned about your oral health,
it may be time to go to a dentist. But, before you go, check out our New
Hampshire discount dental plan
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Copyright: rosipro
/ 123RF Stock Photo
