When Your Teen Asks For A Tongue Ring

Posted March 29, 2018

Oral piercings are not necessarily the type of thing you want to hear your teen is interested in. Whether you have good feelings about tongue rings, negative feelings, or neutral ones, the underlying concern is that they may lead to oral health problems. To begin with, as you know, any type of piercing requires significant care to prevent swelling and infection. So, how to respond to this inquiry when your child suddenly shows interest? We have a few helpful ways to get started.

Bring Your Child To See Us!

We are happy to speak with your teen about desires that come up, such as oral piercings, that can have a significant impact on oral health. Since we’re your child’s dental care team and are not coming from a place of emotion, we can offer clinical explanations regarding the risks of piercings and why they’re typically not considered a wise choice within the dental world.

Explain About Possible (Sometimes Severe) Consequences

Things that really can happen as a result of oral piercings include: Excessive swelling that can block airways and land an individual in the ER (if the case of severe reactions), those allergic or sensitive to metal may have a negative reaction, and the site is very difficult to keep clean and can become infected. In addition, tongue rings can damage, crack, or break teeth, may irritate gum tissue and result in serious gum health problems, and they even present a choking hazard.

Deem It An Adulthood Decision

Perhaps you don’t have any problem with oral piercings in theory but due to the possible complications, care concerns, and more, you are not comfortable giving your teen the okay. However, you are okay with your son or daughter making such personal choices as an adult. You may still explain your potential concerns and then explain that it’s an adult decision that you’re perfectly fine with your teen making in adulthood.

Receive Our Advice Regarding Oral Piercings

When your teen decides it’s time for an oral piercing, we are happy to provide you with facts and advice! Schedule a visit with your Dallas, TX children’s dentist, Dr. Marr at Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda by calling 214-321-4880. We proudly welcome patients from Dallas, TX, and all surrounding communities, including Casa Linda, Lakewood, Lake Highlands, Forest Hills, East Dallas, Mesquite, Garland, Richardson, and more.