The Effects of Lip Rings on Teeth & Gums

Piercing is a popular way to decorate the body and enhance features. While the trend is popular, lip piercing does present some problems for the mouth and gums. If you wish to get a piercing, always visit a professional who follows proper sanitary practices. Make sure the piercing is cleaned with mouthwash regularly to avoid infection.

Gum Irritation

• A lip ring that constantly rubs against the gums can cause irritation and wear. The gums may recede after a piercing, and this can result in permanent damage to the mouth. There is a substantial increase in risk for patients with a tongue, lip or cheek piercing to experience gingival recession, according to the University of Hawaii. This can lead to periodontal disease of the tooth root, which may become exposed when the gums recede.

Tooth Irritation

• A lip piercing may rub against the inside of the bottom teeth. The position of the piercing determines where the wear will occur on the teeth. Those who pierce the center part of the lip will experience rubbing against the lower front teeth.

Interfering with Eating and Talking

• A lip ring may interfere with the way the mouth forms words. This can lead to a speech impediment caused by the lip jewelry. The lip ring may also interfere with eating.

Bacterial Infections

• There is an increased risk of bacterial infection after a piercing, according to the American Dental Association. The mouth is full of bacteria, and a piercing provides an entry into the body that may result in infection. Good hygiene is important after a piercing of any kind, but a lip or tongue piercing is especially vulnerable to bacteria, so extra care should be taken.

Inflammation

• Inflammation of the lip often occurs after a piercing. The swelling of the mouth may indicate an infection that should be evaluated by a doctor if it does not diminish within a few days after the piercing.

Allergies

• Some patients may be allergic to the metals used in mouth jewelry. This can cause an allergic reaction, which may be serious and even life threatening.

Excessive Drooling

• Oral piercings stimulate the salivary gland, which results in excessive drooling. This side effect of mouth piercing can be an embarrassing condition.