Risks of Snake Eyes Tongue Piercing: What You Need to Know
The snake eyes tongue piercing is one of the most controversial and potentially dangerous piercings. While it may seem exciting or adventurous, it comes with a wide range of risks that can significantly impact your oral health and overall well-being. This article will explore the various dangers associated with this piercing and advise readers on the importance of making an informed decision.
Understanding the Procedure
The snake eyes piercing involves placing two piercings on the tip of the tongue, resembling a pair of eyes. This procedure does not connect two muscles together, as it is often inaccurately described; instead, it places two individual piercings (usually vertical or horizontal) on the tongue's tip. This seemingly simple process can have serious repercussions for individuals considering it.
Potential Risks and Complications
Infection
The mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria, and the risk of infection at the piercing site is significantly high. Even with proper aftercare, infections can still occur, potentially leading to more severe health issues. To protect yourself, it's crucial to follow strict hygiene practices and consult a professional piercer.
Swelling and Speech Difficulties
Swelling is a common outcome after the piercing, and it can be quite severe. It's not uncommon for individuals to experience difficulties in speaking, eating, and even breathing. Some people might also notice changes in their speech patterns or find it difficult to articulate certain sounds. In more extreme cases, the swelling can be life-threatening if it impacts breathing.
Nerve Damage
The tongue contains many sensitive nerves responsible for taste, balance, and motor skills. A snake eyes piercing can potentially damage these nerves, leading to reduced or altered taste sensations, numbness, and even paralysis in extreme cases. This is a direct risk that every individual considering this piercing should be aware of.
Rejection or Migration
Just like any other piercing, there is always a risk that the body will reject the jewelry. In such cases, the piercings may migrate or even be removed completely. This can be both painful and unsightly, making it a significant concern for those considering a snake eyes piercing.
Dental Damage
The jewelry used in snake eyes piercings can cause physical damage to the teeth and gums. Over time, this can lead to chipped teeth, cracked enamel, or gum recession. These issues can cause long-term oral health problems, and in some cases, could result in tooth loss.
Scar Tissue Formation
Improper healing or prolonged irritation can lead to the formation of scar tissue in the tongue. This scar tissue can be painful and may interfere with speech and other functions. Proper aftercare and hygiene practices are essential to minimize the risk of scar tissue formation.
Allergic Reactions
For individuals with metal allergies, the jewelry used in snake eyes piercings can cause allergic reactions, leading to irritation, inflammation, and discomfort. It's essential to choose hypoallergenic jewelry to reduce the risk of such reactions.
Considerations Before Proceeding
It's vital to carefully consider the potential risks and complications associated with a snake eyes piercing. Consulting with a professional piercer is highly recommended, as they can provide valuable insights into the procedure and advise on proper aftercare practices. Making an informed decision is crucial to minimize the risks and ensure your oral and overall health.
Proper aftercare is essential to minimize complications. This includes keeping the piercing site clean and dry, avoiding foods that may irritate the area, and following any specificaftercareinstructions provided by the piercer.
Remember, the benefits of a snake eyes piercing are non-existent. The risks are very real and can have a significant impact on your quality of life. If you're considering this piercing, please do so with full awareness of the potential dangers. Prioritize your health over a temporary fashion statement.
Key Takeaways:
Risk of Infection: The mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. Swelling and Speech Difficulties: It can be difficult to speak, eat, and even breathe. Nerve Damage: There is a risk of damaging nerves, leading to altered taste sensations or numbness. Rejection or Migration: The body may reject the jewelry, leading to migration or removal. Dental Damage: The jewelry can cause damage to teeth and gums, leading to chipped teeth, cracked enamel, or gum recession. Scar Tissue: Improper healing can lead to painful and unsightly scar tissue. Allergic Reactions: Consider an individual's metal allergy to avoid any adverse reactions.