EN 
ES Dr. Arabella Michelén
An oral piercing is a perforation made in the oral cavity for aesthetic purposes, to place jewelry sometimes with sentimental value, and other times as a reflection of fashion.
It is commonly seen in:
• The tongue
• The lips (upper or lower)
• The frenulum (under the tongue or lip)
• The cheeks
It is important to establish that this is not a medical treatment; it corresponds to a current fashion trend, and if not properly cared for, it poses a risk to both oral and general health.
In ancient times, Mayan and Aztec cultures pierced the tongue as part of religious rituals. It was believed that this facilitated communication with the gods and was a display of courage and spirituality.
African and Asian tribes used to pierce their lips and place ornaments as a symbol of beauty.
In the last century, oral piercings became, generally among young people, an expression of art and beauty. Sometimes, the care and hygiene required when placing and maintaining them in the mouth are overlooked; otherwise, they can go from being a harmless expression to a source of contamination.
The oral cavity is a warm, humid environment where thousands of microorganisms, both pathogenic and non-pathogenic, reside. Introducing a foreign object such as a piercing—whether made of metal, plastic, or even bioplastics—disrupts the natural balance of this area, becomes a biofilm-retaining element, and therefore increases the risk of multiple conditions and diseases, both oral and systemic.
1. Local and systemic infections
It is extremely important that both the person performing the procedure and the place where it is done meet the required academic training and all quality and hygiene standards to prevent any type of infection, thereby preventing facial cellulitis, abscesses, and even bacteremia.
Knowing each person’s medical history is very important when placing an oral piercing.
2. Damage to teeth and gums.
Their mere presence considerably increases the retention of biofilm and its future calcification, becoming an ideal breeding ground for the development of cavities, periodontal disease, and bad breath. These affect oral health, overall health, and the individual’s well-being.
Constant rubbing of the piercing against the teeth can cause:
• Dental fractures or enamel cracks
• Gum recession, especially in the lower incisors, when in contact with the inner part of the lip or tongue.
• Premature enamel wear, increasing sensitivity and the risk of cavities.
3. Functional alterations
Piercings in the tongue or frenulum can:
• Affect the pronunciation of certain sounds.
• Interfere with chewing and swallowing.
• Alter the sense of taste.
• Cause excessive salivation or constant drooling.
4. Surgical or anesthetic risks
Some piercings can interfere with medical or radiological procedures, such as MRI scans or intubations, representing an additional risk in emergencies or surgeries.
5. Scar and keloid formation
Although less common, some people may develop abnormal scar tissue, causing aesthetic or functional discomfort.
If you already have an oral piercing or decide to get one, it is important to:
• Have it done in a certified center with strict sterilization conditions.
• Follow post-piercing hygiene and care recommendations to the letter.
• Avoid playing with or biting the piercing.
• Maintain rigorous oral hygiene.
• Visit the dentist regularly to detect complications early.
Although each patient is free to choose their style, oral health professionals do not recommend the use of piercings in the oral cavity due to the multiple risks and complications they entail. Aesthetics should never take precedence over health, and there are many other ways to express your personality without compromising your smile.
Oral piercings may seem like a harmless trend, but they are far from it from a clinical standpoint. Before getting one, consult your dentist, assess the risks, and make an informed decision. Your mouth is not only part of your appearance—it is also vital for speaking, eating, and enjoying life.
The decision to wear them or not is personal; whatever your choice, remember that prevention is easier than cure.