If you want to get a tongue piercing, it is very important to learn how to treat it properly, otherwise it could easily become infected. Follow these simple guidelines to keep it clean and heal in no time!
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Do the Piercing
Step 1. Get permission
If you are a minor, you must first obtain your parents' authorization; so you won't waste time looking after a piercing that you should take off anyway.
Step 2. Do some research
Look for a good piercer or a noteworthy studio. Find this information on the internet and make sure he's learned the trade well.
Step 3. Take a look at the shop
It is very important that it is clean and sterile; if it looks dirty, don't get punched there.
Step 4. Make sure they use sterile tools
It is very important, so as to avoid infections and diseases.
Step 5. Expect some pain; it is normal for piercing to hurt
The worst part is the next, when the area starts to swell.
Step 6. Don't be impressed
The piercer will put pliers on your tongue to hold it steady. This will make it easier for him to punch you without making any mistakes.
Part 2 of 4: Surviving the First Healing Period
Step 1. You need to know what to expect
The first few days after getting the piercing done, you will notice several symptoms. Expect to see swelling, some blood, bruising and inflammation, especially in the initial period.
Step 2. Use ice cubes to reduce pain
Drink plenty of cold water and keep ice cubes in your mouth to get rid of swelling. Make sure they are little ones or you'll freeze your mouth.
Don't suck them; let them melt in your mouth
Step 3. Avoid potentially harmful objects and activities
Avoid tobacco, alcohol, large amounts of caffeine, oral sex (including French kissing), chewing gum, and avoid teasing the jewelry during the healing process.
Step 4. In the meantime, avoid spicy, hot, salty or acidic foods
These can cause irritation and burning sensations on or near the piercing.
Step 5. Expect some discharge
Even if you follow these steps and do exactly what the instructions the piercer gave you say, you may see a whitish discharge coming out of the hole. This is absolutely normal and is not an infection; just make sure it's not pus.
Part 3 of 4: Keep it Clean
Step 1. Rinse your mouth
After the piercing is done, use an alcohol-free, fluoride-free mouthwash 4 or 5 times a day for up to 60 seconds, especially after meals and before bed.
Step 2. Clean the piercing
To clean the outside of the piercing, dab sea salt on the piercing two or three times a day and wash it with disinfectant soap twice a day.
Step 3. Wash your hands
Always wash them with antibacterial soap before touching or cleaning the piercing. Avoid touching the piercing, except to disinfect it.
Step 4. Dry the piercing after cleaning it with a tissue or tissue and not a towel, as it may harbor germs and bacteria
Part 4 of 4: Wear the Right Jewel
Step 1. Check the balls regularly
Sometimes, they can unscrew or loosen; it is important to check every now and then, to prevent this from happening. Use one hand to hold the lower one steady and use the other to squeeze the upper one.
Note: To tighten the balls, remember that to the right you tighten, to the left you unscrew
Step 2. Replace the jewel once the first swelling has disappeared
Know that the original piece of jewelry should be replaced with a shorter one after the swelling has subsided; go to the piercer for the replacement, as this is usually done during the healing process.
Step 3. Choose the jewel you like best
Once healed, you can choose from different piercing styles. Just make sure they're made from hypoallergenic material.
Advice
- Cold drinks can provide relief and are helpful in reducing swelling during the healing process.
- Bring some salt water with you whenever you have busy days.
- Keep your head elevated while you sleep to reduce swelling at night.
- Do not remove the jewelry during the entire healing period.
- Eat soft foods so as not to irritate the piercing while chewing or if you don't want the piercing to interfere while you eat.
- Take Tylenol, Benadryl, or Advil to reduce swelling and pain.
Warnings
- Always remember to keep the piercing for at least two weeks so that it does not close. If you take it off, it could close in less than 30 minutes.
- If swelling persists 1 month after getting the piercing, then see a doctor. it should only last 2 to 6 days.
- Don't gargle too much with salt water as it will not only irritate your newly pierced tongue but also cause it to burn.
