Oral Piercing Aftercare
November 15, 2016
A Smart & Gentle Guide
Congratulations on your new oral piercing! The real work starts now with proper care—and that’s exactly what ensures a smooth, comfortable, and healthy healing journey.
Your First Step: Rinse with Clean Cold Water
Right after eating or drinking—and anytime you feel residue build-up—gently rinse your mouth with cold bottled or distilled water. This helps wash away debris and soothes swelling naturally.
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Do: Rinse your mouth gently with cold water after meals or drinks.
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Do: Elevate your head while sleeping for the first few nights to help reduce swelling.
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Don’t: Swish too hard—be gentle to avoid irritating the piercing site.
Foundational Aftercare Rules
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Avoid alcohol and smoking: Both can slow down healing and dry out tissues.
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Skip chewing tobacco and spicy or steaming-hot foods: They irritate the piercing and can cause discomfort.
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No mouthwash or whitening toothpaste: These can be harsh on fresh piercings.
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Hands-off from oral contact: Avoid “wet kissing” or oral sex until your piercing has fully healed.
Healing in Plain Sight: What’s Normal
During healing, you might notice:
- Mild swelling or discomfort—especially in the first few days
- A bit of tenderness when mouth movements are involved
These are all signs your body is doing what it needs to do. Keep following these aftercare guidelines consistently.
When to Reach Out
If you notice any of the following, please get in touch with us or seek medical attention—especially if symptoms persist or worsen:
- Severe swelling or pain that gets worse, not better
- Yellowish or green discharge with an odor
When in doubt, err on the side of caution. Better safe than sorry.
Long-Term Tips for Oral Piercing Wellness
- Stick with oral-safe, high-quality jewelry like implant grade titanium.
- Rinse after meals or drinks that are sugary, caffeinated, or stain-prone.
- Keep up your hydration, healthy eating, and rest—your body heals best when it's taken care of.
- Monitor your gum line. Oral piercings have a history of causing gum recession.
Patience Is Powerful
Oral piercing healing times vary—but generally, one to three months are needed before you can consider yourself fully healed. Take your time and follow these steps—it’s worth it for a strong, comfy result.
Need Support? We’ve Got You
If anything about your healing journey concerns or confuses you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether it’s peace of mind or hands-on help, we're here for you—every step of the way.
