Good oral health can reduce piercing problems

Sep 6, 2010

Early complications following lip and tongue piercings are frequent and might be minimized with proper overall oral healthcare, according to a study in Quintessence International (October 2010, Vol. 41:9, pp. 731-737).

Researchers from Innsbruck Medical University set out to assess the prevalence of early and late complications associated with lip and tongue piercing in a population obtained from a nondental setting.

Study participants had a total of 130 lip and 80 tongue piercings. They were asked to complete a questionnaire to determine demographic data, smoking habits, characteristics of the piercing worn, postpiercing complications, and possible cofactors.

The survey revealed that the prevalence of early piercing complications (as self-reported) was 87.8%. Although there was no statistically significant difference in the overall prevalence of early postpiercing complications after lip or tongue piercing, the type of complication differed significantly according to the piercing location, the researchers noted. Significant cofactors for early complications were oral hygiene behavior, gender, and the person who performed the piercing.

The highest prevalence of late complications was found to be recurrent infections and gingival recessions. As cofactors, time since piercing and oral hygiene behavior had a significant impact on late complications.

"Owing to the high prevalence of late complications -- especially after median lip piercing -- persons with oral piercing should attend regular dental checks and receive professional advice on tooth cleaning and oral hygiene," the researchers concluded.