Understanding Tongue Piercing Craters
Before we dive into solving the issue of a tongue piercing crater, let’s first understand what it is. A tongue piercing crater, often referred to as a ‘piercing dent,’ occurs when the jewelry causes the area around the piercing to become indented or recessed over time. This is due to the pressure exerted by the jewelry on the tongue’s soft tissue. It’s a common occurrence but can sometimes be a sign that the jewelry doesn’t fit properly or that your tongue is reacting to the constant pressure.
Step-by-Step Guide to Get Rid of Tongue Piercing Craters
Step 1: Assess the Piercing
Examine the piercing for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional or a piercing specialist before attempting any home remedies.
Step 2: Jewelry Assessment
Assess the jewelry you are using. If it’s too tight, too heavy, or made from a material that irritates your tongue, it may be contributing to the problem. Consider switching to a shorter barbell or one made from a different material, like titanium, which is lighter and hypoallergenic.
Step 3: Change Jewelry
Replace your current jewelry with a properly fitting piece. If you’re not confident doing this yourself, visit a professional piercer for assistance. Ensure that the new jewelry is not putting unnecessary pressure on your tongue.
Step 4: Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean can help promote healing and prevent infection. Rinse your mouth with a saline solution or non-alcoholic mouthwash after meals and before bed. Brush your teeth gently but thoroughly at least twice a day.
Step 5: Give It Time
Once you have the right fitting jewelry and maintain good oral hygiene, give your tongue time to heal. The crater may take some time to reduce, as the soft tissue of the tongue needs time to reshape itself.
Step 6: Monitoring
Keep an eye on the crater. If it does not begin to diminish over the course of several weeks or if it becomes worse, revisit a professional piercer or a healthcare provider to discuss further options.
Step 7: Professional Help
If home care doesn’t resolve the issue, you may need to seek professional medical advice. In some cases, tissue that has been significantly altered may require medical intervention or even surgical correction.
Remember, patience is key when dealing with a tongue piercing crater. Most importantly, never ignore signs of infection, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you’re unsure about the health of your piercing.