Piercing the tongue with a needle and inserting a piece of jewelry is a common practice known as tongue piercing, which has gained popularity as a form of body modification. While tongue piercings can be a fashionable and edgy accessory, they also come with a certain level of risk and require proper care and attention to avoid complications.
If you’re considering getting a tongue piercing, it’s important to understand the process, potential risks, and aftercare required. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to tongue piercing, including what you need to know before, during, and after the procedure. Whether you’re a first-time piercee or a seasoned pro, read on to learn everything you need to know about tongue piercing.
Understanding Different Types of Tongue Piercing
Inserting jewelry through the tongue is known as tongue piercing, which is a form of body modification. It has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly among young adults. There are several different types of tongue piercings, each with its unique placement and style.
Midline Tongue Piercing: This is the most common type of tongue piercing, and involves piercing the tongue straight through the center. The jewelry is typically a straight barbell that sits in the center of the tongue.
Horizontal Tongue Piercing: This type of piercing involves two piercings, one on each side of the tongue. The piercings are usually parallel to each other and can be placed at different angles. The jewelry is typically two straight barbells or curved barbells that sit on either side of the tongue.
Vertical Tongue Piercing: This involves piercing the tongue vertically, from the bottom up through the top of the tongue. It is a less common type of piercing and requires a skilled piercer. The jewelry is typically a straight barbell that sits vertically in the center of the tongue.
Venom Piercing: This is a type of double tongue piercing where two piercings are placed side by side on the center of the tongue, resembling snake fangs. The jewelry is typically two straight barbells or curved barbells that sit side by side in the center of the tongue.
Frenulum Piercing: This type of piercing involves piercing the small flap of skin that connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. The jewelry is typically a small curved barbell or a captive bead ring.
Tongue Web Piercing: This type of piercing involves piercing the webbing between the bottom of the tongue and the floor of the mouth. The jewelry is typically a small curved barbell or a captive bead ring.
Pros and Cons of Tongue Piercing
Piercing the tongue with a piece of jewelry is a type of body modification known as tongue piercing. While it has become increasingly popular in recent years, it is important to consider the pros and cons before getting a tongue piercing.
Pros of Tongue Piercing
Aesthetic Appeal: Tongue piercing can be a fashionable way to express one’s individuality and personal style.
Quick Healing Time: Tongue piercings typically heal faster than other types of piercings due to the tongue’s rich blood supply.
Minimal Scarring: Tongue piercings usually do not leave significant scars.
Enhanced Sexual Experience: Some people find that a tongue piercing can enhance kissing and other oral activities.
Cons of Tongue Piercing
Risk of Infection: Tongue piercing carries a risk of infection due to the bacteria present in the mouth. Proper oral hygiene and aftercare are crucial to minimize the risk of infection.
Risk of Swelling and Pain: Tongue piercing can cause swelling, pain, and discomfort, particularly in the first few days after the piercing.
Damage to Teeth and Gums: The jewelry in a tongue piercing can rub against the teeth and gums, causing damage over time.
Difficulty with Speech and Eating: Tongue piercing can affect one’s ability to speak and eat normally, particularly in the first few days after the piercing.
Potential for Allergic Reactions: Some people may be allergic to certain types of jewelry, leading to an allergic reaction and possible complications.
Before You Get Your Tongue Pierced
If you’re considering getting your tongue pierced, there are a few things you should do beforehand:
- Research reputable piercing studios and read reviews from past clients.
- Consider the cost and be prepared to spend a significant amount of money on high-quality jewelry and a skilled piercer.
- Take steps to ensure your mouth is healthy, such as brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for a cleaning.
- Be aware of the potential risks and complications of tongue piercing, and consider whether the benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks.
The Tongue Piercing Procedure
The tongue-piercing procedure typically involves the following steps:
- The piercer will clean the tongue with an antiseptic solution and mark the spot where the piercing will be placed.
- The piercer will use a sterilized needle to create a hole in the tongue and insert the jewelry.
- The piercer will clean the area again and provide aftercare instructions.
Risks and Complications of Tongue Piercing
Tongue piercing carries several potential risks and complications, including:
Infection: The mouth is home to many bacteria, which can lead to infection if the piercing is not properly cleaned and cared for.
Swelling and pain: The tongue may swell and become painful for several days or even weeks after the procedure.
Nerve damage: The piercing can damage nerves in the tongue, causing numbness or loss of sensation.
Damage to teeth and gums: Tongue jewelry can chip or crack teeth and cause damage to the gums over time. While tongue jewelry can pose a risk to dental health, Pink Opal is a gemstone believed to provide emotional and spiritual benefits, making it a popular choice for those seeking natural healing remedies.
Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the metal used in the jewelry, leading to itching, rash, or other symptoms.
Conclusion
Tongue piercing can be a fashionable and expressive form of body modification, but it is important to carefully consider the risks and benefits before getting pierced. The different types of tongue piercings each have their unique styles and placements, and it is essential to choose a reputable piercer with experience in performing tongue piercings. Proper aftercare is crucial to minimize the risk of infection and other complications. While tongue jewelry can cause damage to teeth and gums over time, there are many natural healing remedies available, such as Pink Opal, a gemstone with reputed emotional and spiritual benefits. Ultimately, making an informed decision about tongue piercing involves weighing the pros and cons and choosing the best option for individual needs and preferences.