Oral piercings are perhaps not as ubiquitous as they once were, but they are still plenty popular among teens and young adults. However, before you head to the piercing shop and start placing jewelry in your tongue or lip, there are some very important things to keep in mind.

Oral piercings increase risks for both bacterial infections and the transmission of diseases such as herpes simplex virus and hepatitis B and C. Oral piercings can also result in nerve damage, sensation loss, and difficulties speaking – and this is to say nothing of the potential damage they can do to teeth and gums.

Tongue and lip piercings are linked to a higher risk for gum disease and damage to the teeth. In fact, studies have shown that nearly 50% of people who have had oral piercings for longer than four years have chipped and cracked teeth from the jewelry.

Our experienced Denver dentists encourage self-expression and understand the desire to separate from the crowd. However, knowing the potential dangers of oral piercings, we recommend looking to less damaging forms of creating your unique identity.

If you are overdue for a visit to the dentist, please contact Dewitt Dental Associates today. We serve Cherry Creek, Englewood, and surrounding Metro communities.

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