Tips and techniques to prevent infection and side effects of tongue piercings.
To avoid side effects and infection the most important step is to check into the history of your piercer and his/her studio.First, find a studio that is licensed.Inspect the area that the piercing will take place""do not get pierced in an area that is dirty, cluttered, or does not seem sterile.The needles should be medical issue and individually wrapped.Another important component to a safe piercing is the presence of an autoclave and ultrasonic cleanser to sterilize the instruments that are not disposable. This will prevent the transmission of diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. The jewelry you pick is also important to preventing infection and side-effects.Your piercer should be able to help you pick a piece appropriate for you, but generally you will want to use jewelry made of surgical stainless steel, titanium, solid gold, or niobium. To prevent unnecessary strain on your tongue, the first piece of jewelry you choice should be lightweight.Heavier/thicker pieces and fancy additions can be added after the piercing heals.
It takes approximately 4-6 weeks for a tongue piercing to heal.During this time it is very important that you pay close attention to any changes that might occur.If you experience any problems or have any questions contact your piercer immediately.Assuming the piercing appears normal, rinse your mouth every couple of hours and after every meal or drink with diluted mouthwash. Do not use a mouth wash that is high in alcohol and do not use hydrogen peroxide. Sucking on small pieces of ice and drinking cold liquids can stop any swelling that might occur (generally 3 to 5 days after piercing), but remember to always wash your hands before bringing them near you mouth or handling objects that will enter your mouth.This will limit the spread of bacteria.To prevent nighttime swelling, sleep with your head slightly propped up on pillows.Take small bites while eating and try to stick to soft foods for the first week; there is no need to unnecessarily irritate the piercing.Also during this healing period avoid any open-mouth kissing and do not participate in oral sex; both lead to infection, increased swelling, and irritation of the piercing.Do not put yourself in any situation that will cause you pain.
The period after getting a tongue piercing can be difficult for many people.Your tongue might feel extremely uncoordinated and your speech may change a bit (the most common problem is an inability to properly make an "s" sound).During this time it is very important that you follow the above instructions, as well as any given to you by your piercer to insure a healthy piercing.Don't give up!In just a few weeks you can return to a normal life.You can start using mouthwash twice a day instead of more than a dozen times a day.You can eat solid foods and the swelling will be completely gone.Most importantly""you will be left with a beautiful piercing!
