A case report released in the November 2000 issue of the Journal of Periodontology found that piercing the tongue, lip or cheek could cause localized gingival recession and leave the tooth root more vulnerable to decay and periodontal disease...

Skip the Mouth Jewelry Trend and Let a Healthy Smile Make the Fashion Statement

A case report found that piercing the tongue, lip or cheek could cause localized gingival recession.

CHICAGO – November 30, 2000 – A case report released today in the November issue of the Journal of Periodontology found that piercing the tongue, lip or cheek could cause localized gingival recession. This can lead not only to an unattractive defect, but also leaves the tooth root more vulnerable to decay and periodontal disease. Case Report Abstract *

Researchers analyzed the case of a 26-year-old female who had localized gingival recession around the area of her lip piercing. The patient noticed soon after getting the oral barbell that her gums started to progressively recede in the area of the piercing. The barbell had direct contact with the area where the gums were receding. Since the patient's gingival recession was present only in the area of the oral metal device, the piercing was considered to be the cause of the gingival recession.

Photo of Effects of Mouth Piercing to a Localized Area of the Gums
Click for enlarged photo.

"Oral piercing has become a popular trend, and most people do not seek advice from a dental or medical professional prior to the piercing," said Michael McGuire, D.D.S, president of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). "Another important concern is hygienic maintenance of the pierced oral area. The mouth contains millions of bacteria, and infection is a common complication of oral piercing."

Other consequences of oral piercing may include swelling, increased flow of saliva, pain, fractured teeth, interference with speech and metal hypersensitivity. "Many people with oral piercing do not think about the harmful effects it can have on their oral and overall health," explained McGuire. "In this particular case, the doctors were surprised that the patient had a history of mitral valve prolapse, and she was unaware of the consequences of piercing on her medical status. In fact, a case of infective endocarditits following nasal piercing has been reported."

A referral to a periodontist in your area and free brochure samples are available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or visiting the AAP's Web site at www.perio.org.

About the AAP

The American Academy of Periodontology is an 8,000-member association of dental professionals specializing in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth and in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontics is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association.

For more information, contact the AAP Public Affairs Department at 312/573-3242.

* EDITOR'S NOTE: Representatives of the media may contact the AAP Public Affairs Department to receive a copy of the case report An Unusual Cause of Gingival Recession: Oral Piercing. Abstracts of Journal of Periodontology articles are available to the public online. Full-text of studies may be accessed by AAP members and Journal subscribers or purchased online for $20.

Media Center Links

Perio News