What Is a Tongue Piercing?
A tongue piercing is anybody modificationthat involves piercing a piece of jewelry through the tongue.
Then, a needletypically a 14 gauge,says Dohoneyis pushed through the tongue to create the actual piercing.
Getty Images/Design by Cristina Cianci
Then, the jewelry is pushed through behind the needle to complete the piercing process.
In fact, Josephine says that the clamps tend to be more uncomfortable than the piercing itself."
Its more like a weird pressure; it hurts more to bite your tongue, agrees Dohoney.
A double vertical is a little more painful because it goes directly through the tongue muscle.
A horizontal is the most painful because its done in an area where the majority of the nerves are.
You may also feel some soreness in the days after your piercing, especially considering the placement.
However, be advised that horizontal piercings will take longer than vertical ones.
“Most people heal in four [weeks],” says Dohoney.
“A horizontal tongue piercing forces the jewelry through the tip of both muscles.
Its also common to see slight swelling about two days into the healing process.
This may last until the tenth day or so, but it will eventually go down.
So talk to your piercer about what they recommend, even if youve done your research.
In terms of complications, there are both short and long-term consequences.
Then, pull the bar out and place your new piece of jewelry through the hole.
Twist the new jewelrys beads until tight, and youre all set.
The mouth is filled with virulent bacteria, so it is important to be cautious, agrees Dr. Ilyas.
In general, a tongue piercing will run from $35 to $100.
Also, dont forget that piercings come with two charges: the actual piercing and the jewelry.
Be prepared to pay a good price for quality jewelrysomething you definitely shouldnt skimp on.
A barbell is inserted in a tongue piercing by pushing it through behind the needle.
Regarding materials, Dohoney uses surgical-grade stainless steel barbells or implant-grade titanium barbells whichever clients prefer.
Whatever you decide, know that choosing your jewelry material is incredibly important.
Studies have shown there is a significant correlation between piercings and allergies to nickle and cobalt.
After getting your tongue pierced, you’ll likely feel soreness.
Also, ensure your foods are coldhot foods can be irritating on a new piercing.
To avoid this, regularly clean your tongue piercing with an antimicrobial or antibacterial mouth rinse.
Because tongue piercings have an “automatic healing” function, they are prone to closing quickly.
For this reason, it’s important to avoid removing your piercing as it heals.
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