The hole underneath your tongue piercing has turned white is this infected or just healing?
A white coating under your tongue piercing could be a sign of either infection or healing. Here are some ways to differentiate between the two:
Infection:
- The piercing site is painful, swollen, and tender.
- The skin around the piercing is red and warm to the touch.
- There is discharge from the piercing, which may be clear, yellow, or green.
- You have a fever or chills.
Healing:
- The white coating is thin and easily removable.
- The piercing site is not painful, swollen, or tender.
- The skin around the piercing is normal colour and temperature.
- There is no discharge from the piercing.
If you are concerned that your tongue piercing is infected, it is important to see a doctor or piercer so they can accurately diagnose and treat the infection. They may prescribe antibiotics or recommend other treatments to help clear up the infection.
To help prevent infection, it is important to keep your tongue piercing clean and dry. You can do this by:
- Rinsing your mouth with a mild salt water solution several times a day.
- Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and spicy foods.
- Not touching or playing with your piercing.
If you have any questions or concerns about your tongue piercing, be sure to talk to your doctor or piercer.