Anyone considering tongue piercing should seriously consider the risks and benefits before performing this procedure. Unfortunately, the people who do this do not usually have a license and do not discuss the negative possibilities. The most important dental problem is the possible damage to teeth that can be caused by the metal jewelry. The metal can cause teeth to chip or fillings to break. Teeth can become sensitive if a person develops the habit of biting on the metal jewelry in one area of the mouth. This can result in one or more teeth needing root canal therapy.

          Tongue piercing is not risk free. A local or systemic infection is possible. The human mouth is a cesspool of bacteria and even if instruments are sterilized, a person who has this procedure can develop an infection. Some patients have allergies to the metal and if the object comes loose, it can be swallowed.

          Your smile is important and you will certainly need your teeth to eat when you grow older. Having tongue piercing performed can result in harm to your teeth and gums and you should carefully weigh the risks and the benefits to determine if it's worth it.

          Ask yourself: How will it improve your life? Can you accomplish what you want in a way other than having it performed? Are the risksworth it compared to the benefits you will receive? If you are having problems with your tongue piercing and want to speak with our senior Georgia Dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, make an appointment by calling  404-874-7428.