Piercing Aftercare

Use Biotene or another alcohol-free antibacterial mouth rinse. For exterior labret piercings, use a sterile saline solution or a mild, fragrance-free liquid soap, preferably antimicrobial or germicidal.

Rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free mouthwash for 30 seconds after meals and before bed, approximately 4–5 times daily throughout the healing period. Do not over-clean. Cleaning too frequently or using a rinse that is too strong can cause irritation, discoloration, and delayed healing.

During the first 3–5 days, it is normal to experience:

Allow small pieces of ice to dissolve slowly in your mouth.

An over-the-counter, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium may help. Follow package directions and consult your healthcare provider if you are unsure whether these medications are appropriate for you.

Avoid unnecessary talking or movement of the jewelry.

Sleep with your head elevated above your heart for the first few nights.

Once initial swelling has subsided, it is important to replace the original, longer jewelry with a shorter post to reduce the risk of damage to your teeth, gums, and other oral structures. Consult your piercer regarding their recommended downsize timing and policy. Because downsizing typically occurs while the piercing is still healing, it should be performed by a qualified professional piercer.

With clean hands or a clean paper product, periodically check threaded jewelry ends to ensure they remain secure: “Righty-tighty, lefty-loosey.” Consider carrying a clean spare end in case of loss or breakage.

If your jewelry must temporarily be removed for a medical procedure, contact your piercer about a suitable non-metallic retainer or alternative.

If you decide you no longer want the piercing, have the jewelry removed by a professional piercer when possible and continue cleaning the area until the opening has closed.

If an infection is suspected, do not remove the jewelry unless directed to do so by a medical professional. Keeping appropriate jewelry or an inert alternative in place can allow drainage. Removing jewelry prematurely may allow the surface to close while trapping infection within the piercing channel.

Eat slowly and take small bites, placing food toward your molars. Avoid spicy, salty, acidic, and very hot foods and beverages for the first few days. Cold foods and beverages can be soothing and may help reduce swelling.

Foods such as mashed potatoes and oatmeal can stick to the mouth and jewelry, making them more difficult to eat.

For tongue piercings, try to keep your tongue level while eating to prevent the jewelry from getting caught between your teeth. For labret piercings, avoid opening your mouth excessively wide, as this can cause the jewelry to catch on your teeth.

Do not play with, twist, or bite your jewelry. Long-term effects can include permanent damage to teeth, gums, and other oral structures.

Avoid unnecessary trauma, excessive talking, or manipulating the jewelry during healing. These can contribute to irritation, scar tissue, migration, and other complications.

Avoid mouthwash containing alcohol, which can irritate the piercing and delay healing.

Avoid oral sexual contact, including wet/French kissing and oral sex, throughout the healing period.

Avoid aspirin, alcohol, and excessive caffeine while experiencing bleeding or significant swelling.

Avoid submerging your healing piercing in bodies of water such as lakes, pools, hot tubs, and other recreational water.

Common signs and symptoms of infection may include: