My New Tongue Pierce
Many different cultures have pierced their bodies for centuries. Egyptians, Romans, Greeks did piercing and tattooing as body art. Before, people pierced their body for decoration and to show their importance in the group, as well as the belief that it would protect them from evil. Today, we are more aware of the risks of body piercing. I believe that body piercing is a serious decision. So before you decide to have one, it is best that you ask your family, friends, and trusted adults on what they think.
It was Monday afternoon when I finally decided to get my tongue pierced after years and years of wanting it. I didn't have the guts back then, but now I faced my fears and opted to have one before the year ends. When I was in the very place to get my tongue done, the artist told me the risks, and care procedures to be followed. I didn't get scared with the risks I heard, instead I got scared upon seeing how thick the needle is. But I was too determined to have one. So I closed my eyes, then she clamped my tongue and let the need through and placed the barbell in it. When I opened my eyes, I had my tongue ring! It really didn't hurt that much like I expected it to. For the first few days, you will feel your tongue swelling up, you would have a hard time talking, and eating. But it's just part of the process, so chill out! LISTEN CAREFULLY! When you get one, you should avoid oral sex, no chewy foods, no spicy foods, and no beers. You could get a yeast infection from the yeast content in beers.
Image via Wikipedia
How can you prevent infections after you get your tongue pierced?
Preventing infections is not really hard. It won't take a lot of your time to keep your piercing clean. And the good news is, you won't have to worry about complications if you keep it clean.
*Do NOT use alcohol or Peroxide to clean the area. (Both products will dry out your skin) Other strong solutions will discolor gold jewelry.
*Rinse the pierced skin after exercising since sweat may irritate the piercing.
*Keep the pierced area from coming in contact with other people's body fluids, such as saliva and sweat. (Do not have oral sexual contact for 4-6 weeks if you have a tongue, lip, or genital piercing)
*Keep things clean that come in contact with the body part that has been pierced.
*Check your jewelry many times during the day to see if any parts have become loose. If a bar becomes loose, you can accidentally swallow it or damage a permanent tooth.
*Do NOT use a hot tub or swim in public pools until your piercing has healed.
*Rinse tongue after every meal or snack. Rinse with an antibacterial, alcohol-free mouthwash, or warm salt water for 30 to 60 seconds after eating.
*Throw out your old toothbrush and get a new, soft-bristled toothbrush if you have a tongue or lip piercing. This is to avoid exposure to bacteria from your old toothbrush.
*See your dentist for regular checkups and if you think you have a problem. Studies have shown that people who have piercings in their mouth are much more likely to have injuries to their teeth and gums so proper hygiene and care should be followed.
