2024-02-06 16:08:56
February 6, 2024
The lip frenulum piercing or “smiley piercing” is attached behind the upper lip. We see it when we smile. But as it is in permanent contact with the incisors, this is not without consequences on the teeth and gums, warns Dr David Couchat, specialist in orthodontics and president of communications for the French Federation of Orthodontics.
The “smiley” piercing pierces the frenulum of the lip, this small strip of skin attaching the lip to the upper jaw. There are different styles of labret (the jewelry that is inserted through the piercing), including straight, J-shaped, or flat disc labrets, etc. The materials also differ.
Witnessing the immediate and even long-term complications of these jewelry, orthodontists warn of the risks associated with this practice. Although the most common complications occur immediately following piercing, such as infections, contact allergies and cracks, lip frenulum piercings can cause problems that are often unsuspected by the wearer because they do not are neither visible nor painful.
Be uncompromising regarding hygiene
The “piercing artist” or “piercer” must respect strict hygiene and safety standards during the procedure, including the sterilization of equipment (use of the autoclave), the use of disinfectant solutions and as much equipment as possible for single use. Since the piercing deliberately creates a wound in the body, it is then imperative to ensure that it heals.
A piercing-related infection can cause a variety of symptoms, but it is usually marked by pain and pus formation, swelling, a reddened area, etc. Pus should be distinguished from lymph, the latter being a denser substance produced by the body to facilitate healing. An antibiotic ointment may be recommended for prevention.
A preliminary inspection of the teeth
To limit the risks, before having a piercing fitted, it is best to consult a dental surgeon or orthodontist. This will designate the optimal location according to the dentition to avoid damage to dental and surrounding structures, such as the gum and the bone under the gum. “It is essential to consider the position of the teeth, especially in the case of crooked or protruding teeth, specifies Dr Couchat, where the location of the piercing might cause problems because the tooth would come up once morest the piercing. »
The shape of the piercing, the clasp or the device used must also be taken into account. To limit the risks, the practitioner will advise on the size and shape of the labret (the smallest possible bar being recommended), and the material (the lightest possible, plastic plate for the clasp) for better dento-alveolar tolerance. on the long term. For example, “if it’s a small metal ball, adds Dr Couchat, it is imperative that inside it is flat and not blunt, thus avoiding any irritation to the gum and tooth. »
Beware of blows but also of incessant friction
“If the piercing is made of metal, it can turn into a projectile upon impact, recalls David Couchat, because of a nudge, a shove… We must not forget that the lips are designed to protect the teeth by absorbing shock. »
However, without going that far, the incessant contact of the labret with the teeth or gums can cause irreparable damage. “We thus observe teeth having lost part of their enamel, dental fractures, recession of the gums which can lead to loosening of the teeth and loss of bone, adds the specialist. Because even harmless everyday actions, such as stroking your face or moving your lips, can cause risks when in contact with the gum. If you brush your teeth excessively, it can lead to loose teeth. Similarly, if your piercing continually rubs once morest the gum, this will cause abrasion of the gum, then uncovering of the bone, with a risk of tooth loss that must be taken seriously. »
Teeth loss can happen quite quickly. It depends on the friction force and the configuration of each individual’s teeth. “A well-made piercing may pose no problem for some people, thus protecting them from any looseninghe explains. But if damage occurs, it is irreversible. A gum graft will then be necessary, repair of the enamel, or even replacement of the tooth. »
Two to three months following the piercing, once the healing is complete, an inspection by a dental surgeon or orthodontist is recommended. If no problem is found, “the probability of subsequent occurrence of loosening or any other adverse effect is low. »
Source: Interview with Dr David Couchat, specialist in orthodontics and president of communications for the French Federation of Orthodontics (FFO).
Written by: Hélène Joubert – Edited by Emmanuel Ducreuzet
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