Tongue piercings have been a popular body modification since punk rock days but in the 90s gained popularity as a mainstream piercing. Nowadays people are sporting all kinds of tongue piercings but the classic single tongue piercing is still a popular choice. We are here to answer everything you have always wanted to know about tongue piercing including what to expect during and after getting your tongue pierced.

Does tongue piercing hurt?

Like any piercing, the tongue piercing does hurt but it may not be as much pain as you think. Many people relate tongue piercing pain to biting your tongue really hard. The procedure will be over quickly so this low amount of pain won’t last for very long. Unlike other piercings, your tongue piercing may become more painful after being pierced due to the swelling. This should only last for a few days but may last up to a week.

Should I get my tongue pierced?

It is up to you if you should get your tongue pierced. If you have considered the healing time and whether a tongue piercing would suit your lifestyle then go for it! There is no hidden tongue piercing purpose – it initially emerged in Western culture as a way to show your rebellious side and that you weren’t afraid of pain. The ancient routes and tongue piercing meaning are often traced back to Mayan and Aztec origins where tongue piercing was thought to show honour and closeness to God.

How long does a tongue piercing take to heal?

A tongue piercing usually takes 4-6 weeks to fully heal which is a relatively fast healing time. During the tongue piercing healing stages, you may find your diet is restricted to cold, soft foods. It is important to follow tongue piercing aftercare including advice on what to eat to ensure your piercing can heal safely. Tongue piercing care requires cleaning the mouth regularly with mouthwash and saltwater solution to ensure any food and bacteria build up is eliminated before it can cause problems.

What can you eat after getting your tongue pierced?

After getting your tongue piercing only eat soft, cold foods. The plainer the better so stick to foods such as yoghurt and smoothies. Definitely avoid spicy foods as this can aggravate your piercing wound. Tongue piercing side effects include swelling and soreness for the first couple of days so eating soft, cold foods will help to relieve the discomfort caused by this too.

Can I drink out of a straw after tongue piercing?

It is best to avoid drinking through straws after having a tongue piercing as they can catch on your piercing. You may think that drinking through a straw allows you to drink anything but we recommend avoiding any carbonated drinks during healing, whether through a straw or not. If you can, stick to water and only have soft drinks such as juices occasionally. Avoid drinking alcohol during the healing time of 4-6 weeks as this can also affect healing.

Can you kiss after a tongue piercing?

If you get a tongue piercing, be prepared not to kiss anyone for at least 3 weeks after your piercing. If you can, wait until the full healing time of 4-6 weeks before kissing anyone, especially French kissing. Another person’s mouth bacteria may cause you problems with your piercing and can even cause a tongue piercing to get infected. Similar advice is given for oral sex. You should definitely be waiting for the full healing time before attempting oral sex with your new tongue piercing.

Can you talk after tongue piercing?

You may find it difficult to talk after getting a tongue piercing because your tongue will swell. You may also take time to get used to having the piercing jewellery in your mouth which could affect certain words or sounds. By drinking cold liquids and regularly cleaning your piercing you will help reduce the swelling, which should only last from a few days to a week, then you will find it much easier to talk.

Do tongue piercings get infected easily?

A tongue piercing infection is slightly more likely than infections in other types of piercing such as ear piercings. This is because it is impossible to avoid using your tongue after getting your piercing. The most common causes of an infected tongue piercing, especially in the weeks while it is still healing, are food and drink, kissing, and oral sex. All these activities introduce bacteria into the mouth which can affect the open piercing wound. Make sure your tongue piercing is free from food after eating by rinsing your mouth with mouthwash or saltwater solution (this should be used twice a day anyway to keep your tongue piercing clean) and abstain completely from kissing and oral sex during the healing time.

Can tongue piercings reject?

Tongue piercings can reject but it isn’t as common compared to surface piercings because the tongue is pierced deep into the tissue. You are more likely to have problems with infections which could delay healing. If you think your tongue piercing is rejecting or you have noticed that your piercing jewellery has moved then visit your piercer who will be able to assess the piercing and recommend the best course of action. Likewise, if you are experiencing any other symptoms such as redness, discharge, or swelling your piercer may be able to offer advice.

Are tongue piercings dangerous?

If you are pierced by an experienced professional piercer a tongue piercing is not dangerous. You put yourself at risk if you attempt this piercing at home or go to someone who is not qualified because your piercer will need to assess your tongue to ensure they are avoiding any major blood vessels. The main long term danger from tongue piercing is to your teeth. If your piercing barbell or jewellery is too long it may catch on your teeth which over time will affect your dental health. Like with any piercing, if an infection is left untreated this can also cause serious problems. If you suspect you have an infection then seek help from a medical professional as you may need antibiotics.

There are a few different types of tongue piercings available. The tongue piercing types you choose may depend on other piercings you are planning to get and your lifestyle. If you want to explore different tongue piercings then take a look at our article on Web Piercing which is an under tongue piercing.

Successfully healed your tongue piercing? Why not check out our range of tongue piercing jewellery to switch up your design.

Want to know more about piercing at Blue Banana? Check out our Piercing Guides!