At Greater Vancouver Orthodontics, we advise against oral piercings in general, whether you have braces or not. However, if you do have braces, there are some additional risks associated with oral piercings.
Why are oral piercings generally a bad idea?
In general, oral piercings come with a lot of oral health risks. That’s why, when our teen or adult patients ask us about getting oral piercings, we always strongly advise against them.
Some of the risks include:
- Infections: It’s not nice to think about, but our mouths are full of bacteria. Oral piercings create another area for bacteria buildup.
- Disease Transmission: Oral piercings present an increased risk for the transmission of herpes simplex virus, as well as hepatitis B & C.
- Chipped Enamel: Teeth can easily become damaged when they come into contact with metal jewelry. Chipped or cracked teeth can result in expensive dental work.
- Nerve Damage: If the nerves are damaged during the piercing, it can result in numbness and difficulty moving the pierced area.
- Endocarditis: If the bacteria in the mouth enters the bloodstream through the wound created by the piercing, it can lead to the development of endocarditis, which is the inflammation of the heart and/or its valves.
- Difficulty with Normal Oral Functions: Oral piercings can make it difficult to chew, swallow food, and speak. Tongue piercings can cause excessive saliva production, resulting in temporary or permanent drooling.
- Increased Risk of Gum Disease: If you have an oral piercing, especially a long-stem tongue piercing, you’re at a greater risk of gum disease. This is because when the jewelry comes into contact with the gums, it can cause injuries resulting in infections and gum recession over time.
Oral Piercings & Orthodontics
In addition to the above risks, individuals who have braces have even more potential problems to contend with when it comes to oral piercings.
A tongue piercing can hit the braces during talking or sleep, potentially damaging them. It may also make braces less effective by interfering with tooth movement and even causing gaps in the teeth.
Tongue piercings can also interfere with retainers, lingual braces, and Invisalign aligners.
Considering an oral piercing either during or before orthodontic treatment? We strongly recommend against it! For more information, get in touch with Greater Vancouver Orthodontics today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a tongue piercing with braces?
No, it is not recommended to get a tongue piercing with braces. It can cause damage to the braces and interfere with the orthodontic treatment.What are the risks of oral piercings?
Oral piercings come with various risks, including infections, disease transmission, chipped enamel, nerve damage, endocarditis, difficulty with normal oral functions, and an increased risk of gum disease.Can oral piercings affect braces?
Yes, oral piercings can hit the braces during talking or sleep, damaging them. They can also interfere with tooth movement and cause gaps in the teeth.Are there alternative options for expressing individuality while wearing braces?
Yes, there are alternative options such as choosing colorful bands for braces or using temporary accessories that can be attached to the braces.
Conclusion
Getting a tongue piercing with braces is not recommended due to the risks involved. Oral piercings can lead to infections, damage to teeth and braces, and interfere with orthodontic treatment. It’s important to prioritize oral health and consult with your orthodontist for alternative ways to express your individuality while wearing braces.
For more information and personalized guidance, contact Greater Vancouver Orthodontics today.
