Oral Aftercare

Tongue Piercing Healing Guide: Proper Aftercare for a Speedy Recovery

Tongue piercings are a popular and stylish form of body modification. The process involves the insertion of a piece of jewellery through the tongue, and it is typically done using a hollow needle. While tongue piercings can be a great way to express yourself, it is crucial to follow proper aftercare procedures to ensure a speedy and successful healing process. Here are some guidelines to follow during the healing period: 

• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs, which can slow the healing process and increase the risk of infection. Smoking is particularly harmful as it restricts blood flow, slowing down the healing process and increasing the risk of infection. Alcohol and drugs can also cause dehydration, further impeding the healing process. 
• Rinse your mouth with sea salt after every meal and before bed. Combine 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt with 8 ounces of warm distilled water. Ensure you swish the solution in your mouth for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out. Do not swallow. Sea salt solution helps to clean the piercing and reduce inflammation. It is important to use warm water to ensure the solution is not too cold or too hot, as this can irritate.
• Avoid spicy, acidic, and crunchy foods that can irritate the piercing. Stick to soft foods and liquids like soup, smoothies, and mashed potatoes. Spicy and acidic foods can cause discomfort and increase inflammation, while crunchy foods can get lodged in the piercing and cause irritation. It is essential to avoid these types of foods during the healing period to prevent complications.
• Do not play with your jewellery or move it around unnecessarily. Healing can be delayed as a result of this irritation. It is essential to leave the jewellery alone and avoid touching it as much as possible during healing. Any unnecessary movement can cause trauma to the area, slowing the healing process and increasing the risk of infection.
• Soft-bristled toothbrushes and mild toothpaste should be used twice a day to brush your teeth. Mouthwashes containing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide should be avoided. Brushing your teeth helps to prevent bacteria from building up in the mouth, which can cause infection. It is crucial to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild toothpaste to avoid causing trauma to the piercing. Mouthwash that contains alcohol or hydrogen peroxide can be too harsh for the piercing and cause irritation.
• If you experience swelling or pain, take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed. Reduce swelling by applying a cold compress. Swelling and pain are normal after getting a tongue piercing, but it is essential to manage these symptoms to ensure a speedy recovery. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to alleviate pain, while a cold compress can reduce inflammation.
• Keep your hands clean and avoid touching the piercing unless necessary. You should wash your hands with soap and warm water before touching them. Hands can carry bacteria, which can cause infection. Keeping your hands clean and avoiding touching the piercing as much as possible during the healing process is essential. If you must touch the piercing, washing your hands with soap and warm water is crucial. 
• During the recovery phase, avoid oral sex and kissing. This can introduce bacteria and cause infection. Bacteria can be easily transmitted through oral sex and kissing, which can cause infection and delay healing. Avoiding these activities during the healing period is crucial to successful recovery.
• Visit your piercer if you experience any complications, such as excessive swelling, discharge, or fever. If you experience any complications during the healing period, it is important to seek advice from your piercer. Excessive signs of infection or other complications and prompt treatment can prevent further issues.

It is also essential to ensure you use high-quality jewellery made from safe materials. Tongue piercings require jewellery that is biocompatible and safe for oral use. Jewellery made from surgical steel, titanium, or niobium is a good option for tongue piercings as they are safe and durable.

In addition to proper aftercare, it is also important to be patient during the healing process. Tongue piercings typically take 4-6 weeks to heal, sometimes longer for some individuals. It is crucial to avoid changing or removing the jewellery during the healing period to prevent trauma to the piercing.

In conclusion, tongue piercings are a popular and stylish form of body modification, but proper aftercare is crucial for successful healing. Following these guidelines can ensure a speedy recovery, and enjoy your new piercing for years. Always seek advice from your piercer if you experience any complications or concerns during the healing period.