Bakersfield Cosmetic Dentist Warns Patients of Hazards of Oral Piercings

BAKERSFIELD, CALIFORNIA - The Journal of the American Dental Association published an article about oral piercings titled "The piercing truth about tongue splitting and oral jewelry," in their July issue. The article highlights the high prices prices people pay their oral piercings.

Piercings can be a fun, semi-permanent way to express individuality, but they can also jeopardize oral health. Dr. Joseph Marvizi, a Bakersfield cosmetic dentist, wants patients to know the dangers of oral piercings, especially those that can threaten oral health.

"Bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream through open wounds caused by tongue splitting and oral piercings that may cause endocarditis, a dangerous infection affecting the heart," the article states. Endocarditis causes inflammation of the muscles and valves of the heart, a condition, that though rare, is potentially life threatening.

Oral piercings can also complicate procedures performed by a cosmetic dentist. When playing with their tongue ring patients could accidentally chip a crown, filling or even their natural tooth.

Oral piercings also pose a threat to sensitive gum tissue. Since gum tissue grows quickly, it may eventually grow over a piercing, known as embedding. Embedded piercings often require surgery to be removed. Constant contact with the piercing-a foreign object- can even cause the gum line to recede, which exposes the roots of teeth leading to decay and heightened sensitivity.

"It's important to compare the risks associated with piercings to the value you feel they add to your life," says Marvizi, a Bakersfield dentist. "While getting pierced or not is ultimately up to you, we want to make sure your decisions don't negatively affect your health."

At Apollonia Dental Center, services such as teeth whitening and Invisalign are provided with an emphasis on customer service to patients in Bakersfield, Oakland and surrounding areas. Patients who have, or are considering oral piercings, can contact Larson's office to schedule a routine dental exam to have their oral health evaluated.

Learn More
To learn more about oral health or other dentistry topics, visit www.apolloniadental.com or call 661-831-9024.

About Us
Apollonia Dental Center builds lasting relationships with their patients. The staff provides outstanding oral care while monitoring patients for potential dental issues.