Lip Piercing Precautions

Oral piercings, including lip and tongue jewelry, are a popular form of body modification. They are safe when performed by a skilled piercer and cared for correctly. However, a badly done or poorly maintained lip piercing can push itself out of the skin, create an unattractive scar, or damage teeth and gum tissue. Some piercings may even cause life-threatening infections. Taking the correct precautions before and after getting a lip piercing increases the chance of a safe, attractive modification.

Piercer Selection

• Licensing requirements and enforcement for piercers vary significantly from state to state, putting much of the burden of selection on the customer. Only choose a piercer who has extensive experience with oral piercings, uses safe and sterile procedures, and can explain the piercing process in detail. Avoid extremely inexpensive piercers or anyone who seems unwilling to answer questions, as these people may not have the experience needed to do a good job. Piercers should use only instruments pre-sealed in sterile packages.

Aftercare

• Correct aftercare reduces the risk of infection or piercing rejection. After the piercing procedure, the lips may be swollen, sore and even slightly bruised. Clean the area a few times per day using an alcohol-free anti-bacterial or anti-microbial mouth rinse. Some piercers also advise rinsing with a mild solution of sea salt, which kills bacteria. Clean lip piercings with water or anti-microbial rinses after every meal. Buy a new toothbrush to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria from the old one. Such clean ice chips for the first few days if swelling is a problem. Do not smoke, chew gum, chew on objects, kiss or engage in oral sexual contact before the piercing has healed. Leave the jewelry in at all times to keep the piercing from healing over, and avoid touching the area.

Jewelry Selection

• Choosing the right jewelry can make a significant difference in the quality of the healed piercing. According to the American Family Physician, most piercers use surgical stainless steel jewelry for the initial piercing. This material rarely causes allergic reactions in sensitive people. Inserting other jewelry after the piercing has healed may induce reactions, however. Avoid stainless steel not labeled as "surgical," as it may contain nickel. Some gold jewelry my also contain this irritating metal. Niobium and titanium jewelry may also be used in initial piercings or after healing. These two materials are lighter than steel and rarely cause an allergic reaction, making them an excellent choice for lip piercings.

Considerations

• Even well-maintained lip piercings can cause damage to the teeth and gums. Pressure from the back of the lip piercing can encourage the gums to recede or become infected. Lip piercings may also chip teeth, especially when frequently touched or moved with the fingers or tongue. Some people choose a type of pocketed piercing called a dermal anchor to reduce these risks. This piercing is more costly and difficult to place, but has no back to damage the teeth.