How to treat an infected tongue piercing
Tongue piercings have been in fashion for a number of years. However, they remain one of the piercings most likely to close up, or develop an infection, itching, swelling and pain. If you've followed all of the recommendations in order to heal well, but have still developed an infected piercing, we'll show you how to treat it step by step. In any case, we recommend that you consult a professional who will prescribe a specific treatment plan.
You'll need:
- Mouthwash.
- Water and salt.
- New toothbrush.
- Saline solution.
Steps to follow:
Brush your teeth every day to prevent bacteria. Buy a new toothbrush. It's very important to maintain thorough and adequate hygiene to disinfect the piercing.
Use mouthwash containing betadine after each brushing. One of the best known and recommended is Vantal Bucofaringeo. Be sure to dilute it with water according to the directions on the package.
Also, gargle with warm salt water or a saline solution whenever possible, especially after kissing someone or after eating.
Purchase surgical steel piercings. They're the best for piercings due to their being sterile and lower the chances of an allergic reaction. In addition, the post is longer than with other piercings, and this will prevent it from becoming too tight if the area swells.
Suck on crushed ice if you have a swollen tongue. It's an effective natural remedy if you don't have anti-inflammatory medications at home.
If your tongue swells a lot and is very painful, you should consult a doctor immediately. Do not try to take your piercing out as this will close the hole, which will in turn trap the infection inside your tongue's skin. This will help the infection spread further and as a result you would have to have surgery.
This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.
If you want to read similar articles to How to treat an infected tongue piercing, we recommend you visit our Family health category.
Tips
- Avoid smoking, drinking sodas and/or alcohol, eating spicy foods, chewing gum and oral sex.
- Consult a professional to learn which steps to take. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic cream.
- Pay attention to what kind of material the piercing is made of. The cause of infection could be an allergy.
- If an abscess appears around the piercing, you shouldn't touch it.
- Don't use antibacterial mouthwashes with alcohol since these could irritate and slow the healing process.
