As a young mother, I was reasonably ignorant when raising my firstborn. My biggest regret is that I didn't help her take better care of her teeth. Like many people, I didn't realise the importance of baby teeth, resulting in long-term dental problems. Recently, my daughter got married and some of my tears were for the beautiful, glistening smile she presented to the cameras. Ever since I realised the dental damage I had caused, I had been saving for my daughter to have cosmetic dentistry. The results are remarkable. During the course of this journey, I have learnt a lot about caring for children's teeth and corrective procedures that can be undertaken when issues arise. I am sure many of you would be interested in the latest knowledge and techniques that are available to prevent and repair dental complications. I'm Margret Devlin - thanks for visiting.
Mouth piercings are becoming increasingly popular in Australia. However, while an oral piercing can be an attractive form of self-expression, they do present a danger to your dental health. Studies have shown that tongue and lip piercings can cause extensive damage to tooth enamel and gums. However, this doesn't mean that you have to avoid having your tongue or lip pierced. By taking the right action, you can protect your teeth from the danger posed by oral piercings. Below is a guide to 5 things you should consider and do if you are planning to have an oral piercing.
Fit acrylic balls
Metal balls fitted to your piercings can cause damage to your gums and teeth. The body modification shop may also offer acrylic balls as an alternative to metal fixtures. Acrylic is a much softer material that will not cause as much damage when it comes into contact with your teeth and gums. By choosing an acrylic ball you can help to protect your teeth. However, if you accidentally bite down on acrylic balls, they can still damage your teeth.
Consider bioplast piercings
BioPlast balls, which are made of soft flexible plastic, are the safest option. They will not cause damage if they come into contact with your gums or teeth.
Ask for the tongue piercing to be placed further back in your mouth
If you are considering having your tongue pierced, you should ask the body artist to position the piercing as far back on your tongue as possible. By positioning the piercing to the rear of your tongue, you reduce the risk that it will clash against your front teeth.
Wear a flat disc on the back of your lip or tongue piercings
The small ball on the underside of tongue and lip piercings can come into contact with your teeth and gums, causing damage. Fitting a flat metal disc instead of a ball can help to reduce the pressure on your teeth and gums, reducing the chance of damage.
Avoid playing with your piercings
When you have just been fitted with a new tongue or lip piercing, it can be tempting to play with it using your tongue. However, you should try to avoid doing this, as this will increase the friction between the piercings and your teeth and gums and increase the risk of damage.
If you have any concerns about how piercings could impact your dental health, you should book an appointment with your local dentist.
Share23 February 2017
