How to Care for a Tongue Piercing
A tongue piercing is very hip with the younger set. It is a fun piece of body jewelry that can show off your wild side. If you do decide to get a tongue piercing, you should make sure that it is cared for properly. Read on to find out how. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Expect swelling. For the first few days following the piercing, you will have difficulty eating and talking. Stick to smoothies and mashed foods until you are able to eat properly.
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Rinse with diluted mouthwash after meals. Use 1/4 the normal strength by mixing it with water. You can also use a mixture of salt and warm water to rinse. Take your time rinsing out your mouth to ensure that all food has been removed.
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Eat slowly with small bites. You will not want the piercing to knock against your teeth and cause damage.
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Drink a lot of ice water to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Hot food should be avoided until the piercing has completely healed.
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Change to a shorter barbell after the swelling has gone down. You need to have a longer one inserted initially because of the increased size of the tongue.
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Tips & Warnings
You must wait at least one and a half to two weeks to change the barbell. This will give the tongue adequate time to heal.
Do not overuse mouthwash. This can kill the mouth's natural enzymes that will protect you from developing an infection.
Avoid playing with the piercing while it is healing. It can cause scar tissue to form.
Do not give oral sex during the healing period. This can lead to irritation at the piercing site.
