Putting a needle through what is among your most sensitive body organs comes with quite a few consequences. A tongue piercing could cause several immediate and long-term effects that negatively impact your oral health. Along with the obvious risk of infection (including tetanus), tongue piercings can also lead to gum recession and chipped teeth, as well as cause choking hazards, the American Dental Association warns. Not to alarm you, but worst-case scenario, aggressive swelling of the tongue could even impede breathing. As professional piercer Brit Shostak told Nylon, "No matter the piercing, anything inside your mouth can cause damage to your teeth, gums, enamel, you name it."
And then there is the ever-persistent risk of tears or physical pain in the event that your teeth accidentally come down on your piercing a bit too hard while speaking, sleeping, or eating. The moist ecosystem inside your mouth also gives bacteria a free run if hygienic piercing practices aren't followed or proper antibacterial aftercare isn't administered. Abscesses aren't umcommon with tongue piercings — a risk medical professionals have long highlighted. As revealed by Cambridge City Dental, one Australian woman recounted how a six-year-long ring gave way to an abscess under her tongue that required surgery. Another woman, meanwhile, noted in Bustle that her speech pattern changed enough for her to ditch the piercing.
The bottom line is this: Before getting your tongue pierced, know what you're signing up for.
