Trouble Oral Piercings Can Cause for Your Teen

Oral piercings have become popular among teens and young adults. Many get them as a part of expressing their own personal style. In fact, your loved one might be trying to convince you to let them get one. But before you say yes, there are a few things you should know about how they can impact your teen’s oral health. Here’s what it can do to their smile over time.

What Are Oral Piercings?

When it comes to oral piercings, you might think about the ones that go through the tongue. But there are several others, such as those on the lips, cheek, or any other tissues in the mouth. That said, no matter where they are located, they can be trouble for your teen’s teeth and gums.

Why Are Oral Piercings Bad News for My Teen?

Although your loved one might think these piercings look cool, they disrupt the mouth’s balanced ecosystem. After they are placed, the wound created may take longer to heal because of the millions of bacteria that live in the oral cavity. The bleeding, scabbing, and swelling can make it harder to clean the area, increasing their risk of an infection. Inflammation and tenderness during healing can even last for two months or longer.

If the jewelry is placed wrong, then your teen’s teeth can also be affected. They can become chipped or damaged to the point where they require restorative treatments like crowns. The piercing can also constantly hit the enamel while talking or eating, which can wear down this layer faster than normal.

The gums aren’t safe from trouble either! The constant rubbing against the soft tissues may cause them to recede and pull away from their teeth. As the roots become exposed, your loved one might be at a higher risk of tooth loss.

In the end, it’s best to try to steer your teen away from oral piercings. Convincing them to let go of the idea can be tough, but their dentist can help them see the risks. Another great option is finding another way for your loved one to express themself. That way, they get closer to being the person they want to be while protecting their smile in the process.

About the Practice

Want to make sure your teen’s teeth and gums are in great shape? Our team at Wylie Children’s Dentistry is dedicated to helping kids of all ages avoid dental problems. Led by Dr. Allen Pearson, he’s a board-certified pediatric dentist with nearly 20 years of experience. By staying on top of growing grins, you can feel your best as a parent knowing there’s nothing to worry about. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at 972-429-7070.