Dental jewelry and oral piercings
Far from being a simple cosmetic procedure, applying dental jewelry must be done in an appropriate environment that follows hygiene and asepsis standards, and must be preceded by a dental examination. However, the Quebec Order of Dentists (ODQ) does not recommend it because of the risks it may pose to oral health. Speak with your dentist before taking this step.
Possible consequences for oral health:
- Premature tooth wear due to friction from the jewelry.
- A cracked or broken tooth due to repeated impacts (while chewing or playing a sport); this can lead to loss of tooth vitality and eventual tooth loss.
- Gum irritation and bleeding.
- Gum recession; in extreme cases, a graft may be necessary.
- Speech difficulties.
- Damage to a nerve in the tongue that may lead to paresthesia, a reduction in sensation similar to that experienced with partial anesthesia.
Frequently asked questions
Is getting dental jewelry recommended?
Applying dental jewelry is not a simple cosmetic procedure: it must be done in an environment that follows hygiene and asepsis standards, and must be preceded by a dental examination. The Quebec Order of Dentists does not recommend it because of the risks it may pose to oral health, and Centre dentaire Champfleury invites patients to speak with their dentist before taking this step.
What are the oral health risks of a piercing?
Risks include premature tooth wear from friction with the jewelry, as well as a cracked or broken tooth from repeated impacts, which can lead to loss of tooth vitality and eventual tooth loss.
Can dental jewelry cause other problems?
Dental jewelry can also cause gum irritation and bleeding, gum recession (which may require a graft in extreme cases), speech difficulties, and damage to a nerve in the tongue that may lead to paresthesia.