Why People Get Tongue Rings

Body piercing has been around for centuries. It experienced resurgence in popularity in the mid-1990s.

Why Pierce the Tongue?

Most people get their tongue pierced as a fashion statement. Others get pierced for its supposed sexual benefits: Some people report that certain interactions (say, kissing or oral sex) are more enjoyable.

How It's Done

Go to a trained and certified piercer in a clean and established professional business. A piercer uses a needle through the tongue, usually the center. Typically this is done without anesthetic.

Hardware

At first, you'll be fitted with a very long barbell (a metal rod bookended by two metal or plastic beads), which allows the tongue to heal. After healing, the barbell can be replaced with one that is shorter. Barbells made of surgical stainless steel or solid silver or gold are highly recommended.

Care

The aftercare is vital. The tongue will swell for two to six weeks, during which you will swish with mouthwash for its antiseptic properties. Expect to talk goofy and subsist on a diet of soft foods during the first week.

Side Effects

The American Dental Association reports that tongue rings can cause pain, inflammation and infection. Other symptoms, such as injury to the teeth, gums and dental work, are also possible.

References

• Association of Professional Piercers
• Ring Surf

Resources

• How to Care for a Tongue Piercing