Have you ever wondered what to do if your nipple piercing starts sinking into the tissue? Is it a cause for concern? In this article, we’ll discuss nesting and embedding in oral piercings and help you understand the difference between the two.
Nesting
Nesting occurs when an oral piercing creates a small dent in the tissue on the inside of the mouth. The part of the jewelry that is outside the body doesn’t cause this dent. Nesting is actually a positive occurrence as it acts as a protective barrier for your teeth and gums, safeguarding them from potential damage caused by the jewelry. If your piercing is nesting, you should still be able to move the jewelry out of the dent easily. There should be no abnormal pain or swelling, and the only signs present should be those of a healing piercing. The end of the jewelry inside your mouth should be visible and not covered by oral tissue.
Embedding
Embedding occurs when an oral piercing is done using jewelry that is too short to accommodate the swelling that occurs after the piercing. This is particularly important to consider for piercings like the philtrum and fresh tongue piercings, as they tend to swell significantly during the initial healing period. In embedding, the tissue surrounding the jewelry engulfs the interior end, causing it to grow over the jewelry. This is a serious situation as it can make jewelry removal difficult or even impossible. If left untreated, embedded jewelry can lead to complications such as infection. Symptoms of embedding include redness, warmth, possibly bloody or white discharge, and tightness around the jewelry. Moving the jewelry past the tissue becomes impossible, and in severe cases, medical intervention may be required to remove the jewelry.
If you notice that your oral piercing is nesting, there’s no cause for alarm. Simply continue following your piercer’s aftercare instructions, and your piercing should heal properly. However, if you suspect that your piercing is embedding or you’re experiencing any discomfort, it’s crucial to seek immediate assistance from your piercer. They may be able to salvage the piercing by replacing the jewelry with a longer option. If the situation has worsened and the jewelry cannot be removed, your piercer will likely advise you to seek medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I do if I notice my nipple piercing is embedding?
A: If you suspect that your nipple piercing is embedding, it’s important to contact your piercer right away. They can assess the situation and determine the necessary steps to address the issue.
Q: Can embedding jewelry be removed on my own?
A: It’s not recommended to remove embedding jewelry on your own, as it may cause further complications or damage. Seeking professional assistance is the best course of action.
Q: How can I prevent embedding in nipple piercings?
A: To prevent embedding, it’s crucial to ensure that the initial jewelry used is of the appropriate length to accommodate swelling. Regularly cleaning the piercing and following proper aftercare instructions can also help prevent complications.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between nesting and embedding is essential when it comes to oral piercings. While nesting is a natural occurrence that provides protection, embedding requires immediate attention and professional intervention. By recognizing the signs and seeking help promptly, you can ensure the best outcome for your nipple piercing. Remember to consult your piercer if you have any concerns or questions throughout the healing process.
Happy piercing!
