Piercings Can Easily Get Infected - What Signs to Watch Out For
Posted on 12/15/2025 by Dr. Michael Wockenfus |
 Thinking about getting a piercing? They can be a great way to express yourself, but it's super important to know about the risks, especially infection. Let's talk about how to keep your mouth healthy when you have piercings and what to look for so you can avoid problems. Taking care of your piercings, along with practicing good oral care, is an important part of prevention dentistry.
Why Piercings Get Infected
Your mouth is full of bacteria. Some are good, but others can cause trouble, especially when you introduce a new piercing. A fresh piercing is essentially an open wound, making it easy for bacteria to get inside and cause an infection. Factors that increase the risk include:
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Touching the piercing with dirty hands. |
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Not cleaning the piercing properly. |
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Using low-quality jewelry. |
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Having a weakened immune system. |
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Smoking or chewing tobacco. |
Signs of Infection to Watch For
It's crucial to know the signs of an infection so you can act fast. Here's what to look out for:
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Increased Pain: Some tenderness is normal after getting a piercing, but if the pain gets much worse, it could be a sign of infection. |
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Redness and Swelling: A little redness and swelling are typical right after a piercing. However, if the redness spreads or the swelling increases, it's a warning sign. |
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Pus or Discharge: Any yellow, green, or cloudy fluid coming from the piercing is a strong indicator of infection. |
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Fever: A fever can mean the infection is spreading beyond the piercing site. |
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Bad Odor: An unpleasant smell coming from the piercing area is a sign of infection. |
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Difficulty Speaking or Swallowing: These symptoms, particularly with tongue or lip piercings, could indicate a serious infection. |
How to Prevent Infections
Prevention is key when it comes to piercings. Here are some tips to help you avoid infection:
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Choose a Reputable Piercer: Make sure the person doing your piercing is experienced, licensed, and uses sterile equipment. |
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Follow Aftercare Instructions: Your piercer will give you specific instructions on how to clean and care for your new piercing. Follow these instructions carefully. |
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Clean Regularly: Clean the piercing with a saline solution (saltwater) several times a day. |
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Avoid Touching: Resist the urge to touch or play with your piercing, as this can introduce bacteria. |
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Use High-Quality Jewelry: Opt for jewelry made from surgical stainless steel, titanium, or other hypoallergenic materials. |
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Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep your mouth clean. |
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Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoking, chewing tobacco, and alcohol, especially in the early stages of healing. |
What to Do If You Think You Have an Infection
If you suspect your piercing is infected, don't panic, but act quickly.
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See Your Dentist or Doctor: Get a professional evaluation as soon as possible. |
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Don't Remove the Jewelry: Unless advised by a healthcare professional, leave the jewelry in place. Removing it could cause the hole to close up, trapping the infection inside. |
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Follow Medical Advice: Your dentist or doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other treatments to clear up the infection. Follow their instructions carefully. |
Taking good care of your mouth and your piercings is the best way to prevent infections and keep your smile healthy. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way!
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