Gannawarra Times
By Dr Behrooz Fateh
ORAL piercings are becoming more popular among young adults.
These include lips, tongue, frenum, uvula and cheek piercing.
While some do it to be unique, others are viewing it as a form of body art.
Unfortunately, there is a general lack of awareness about negative consequences of oral or perioral piercings.
More has to be done to educate young adults on the multiple oral and dental complications associated with them so that one can make informed decisions.
Possible oral or dental complications include:
- Local complication (at the site of piercings) – nerve damage, localised allergic reaction.
- Trauma to teeth – dental abrasion, chipped/fractured teeth, pulpal damage, damage to natural dentition.
- Oral lesion – ulcers, traumatic fibroma.
- Mucogingival defects – promote gingival recession.
- Increase risk of periodontal disease.
- Risk of infection – blood borne infection (HIV, hepatitis B or C), tetanus, dental abscess (Ludwig’s angina secondary to tongue piercing).
- Bleeding.
- Swallowing of piercing object.
- Bad breath
It is important to discuss with your dentist about the risks involved in oral or perioral piercing, and at the same time being examined to pick up and treat any oral complications.
