In recent years, tooth piercings have become a unique and trendy way to express oneself. However, with the rise of this trend comes the need to educate ourselves on the risks and benefits associated with tooth piercings. In this blog post, we will explore tooth piercings, how they may be accomplished, and, most importantly, whether they’re safe or not.

What Are Tooth Piercings?

People can get a unique piercing that attaches gems or grills to their teeth to enhance their smile. This type of piercing is unique because it doesn’t require any holes to be drilled, making it a minimally invasive and often painless process. The jewellery is attached to the tooth’s surface rather than being inserted through it, reducing the risk of complications. The piercing can be temporary or semi-permanent, depending on the type of attachment. Temporary piercings can last up to six weeks, while semi-permanent piercings can be cemented to the tooth. The gems or grills can be made of various materials, such as gold or precious metals, designed to snap over the teeth or be embedded into the tooth surface. This type of piercing allows people to customize their smile and make it more attractive while providing a temporary or semi-permanent way to fill in gaps, hide stains, or draw attention away from irregular teeth.

How Are Tooth Piercings Done?

The process of getting a tooth piercing is relatively straightforward. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:

1. Before the piercing, you must follow pre-piercing instructions to ensure your mouth is clean and ready for the procedure. Moreover, a piercer or a dentist will clean your tooth enamel properly.
2. The good thing about the tooth piercing is that it doesn’t require drilling a hole into your tooth; instead, a bonding agent or composite specially made from a resin material will be applied to the area where your jewellery will be placed.
3. The next step is carefully placing the jewellery into the composite. The procedure is done by a piercing expert or a dentist with sterilized instruments.
4. You must be careful while brushing your teeth and chewing food. Avoid eating hard food as you might accidentally damage the jewellery, and it can fall off into your mouth.

Some people opt for drilling their tooth to secure the ring into it, but it is not recommended as it can damage your tooth and be irreversible.

Are Tooth Piercings Safe?

Accidental Swallowing of Jewellery

One of the most common concerns with tooth piercings is the risk of accidentally swallowing the jewellery. It can happen if the piercing falls out or becomes loose, and if you’re not careful, you may end up eating a small piece of metal or a gemstone. In rare cases, swallowing jewellery can also lead to more severe complications, such as intestinal blockages or allergic reactions.

Chipping or Damaging Teeth

Another potential issue with tooth piercings is the risk of chipping or damaging teeth. It can happen if the piercing is not done correctly or the jewellery is not securely attached to the tooth. If the piercing falls out or becomes loose, it can cause teeth to become chipped or damaged. Additionally, if the piercing is not properly cared for, it can lead to tooth decay, cavities, or other oral health problems.

Jewellery Damage and Irritation

Over time, constant rubbing of jewellery against the lips or surrounding tissues can cause damage and irritation. This is particularly true for people with sensitive skin or lips or those prone to skin irritation. If the jewellery is not correctly adjusted or fitted, it can cause friction and irritation around the mouth.

Enamel Damage

One of the main concerns with tooth piercings is the risk of enamel damage. When food and debris accumulate under and around the jewellery, it can cause erosion and wear away the enamel on your teeth. Enamel is the outermost layer of your teeth, protecting them from decay and sensitivity. If the enamel is damaged, it can lead to increased sensitivity, tooth decay, and even cavities.

Tooth Decay

When food and debris get trapped under and around the jewellery, it can create a perfect environment for bacteria to grow and thrive. This can lead to tooth decay, a bacterial infection that causes cavities and holes in the teeth. If left untreated, tooth decay can spread to other teeth, leading to abscesses and other serious oral health problems.

Difficulty in Brushing and Removing Plaque Buildups

Tooth piercings can also make it more difficult to brush and remove plaque buildup from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and can cause cavities and gum disease if not removed regularly. With a tooth piercing, reaching all areas of the tooth can be more challenging, leading to plaque accumulation and other oral health problems.

Potential Complications

If you don’t take proper care of your tooth piercing, it can lead to a range of potential complications, including:

• Plaque Accumulation: Plaque buildup on your teeth can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems.
• Infection: Bacteria can infect the piercing site, leading to swelling, redness, and pain.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth decay or enamel damage can cause hot or cold temperature sensitivity.
• Tooth Discoloration: Tooth decay or enamel damage can cause discolouration or staining of the teeth.
• Gum Inflammation: Gum disease can cause inflammation, redness, and swelling of the gums.
• Periodontal Disease: Untreated gum disease can lead to periodontal disease, a severe infection that can cause bone loss and even tooth loss.

Tooth piercings can be a unique and stylish way to express oneself, but weighing the risks and benefits before deciding is essential. You can minimise the risks associated with tooth piercings by choosing a reputable piercer, following proper aftercare instructions, practising good oral hygiene, and monitoring your mouth for signs of complications.

Remember, it’s crucial to prioritize your oral health and consult a professional if you have any concerns or questions about getting a tooth piercing.

Tooth piercings may not be suitable for everyone, but for those interested in this unique self-expression, it’s essential to be informed about the potential risks and benefits. By being aware of these factors and minimising risks, you can enjoy your tooth piercing while maintaining good oral health.

Do you have any experience with tooth piercings? Share your story in the comments below!