Body piercing is very popular these days. Along with tattoos, body piercing makes one feel cool and sexy. At first, body piercing started with ear and nose piercing. It eventually evolved and advanced so much during the last few years that it progressed to tongue piercing, which is now gaining popularity.

Many thought tongue piercing was just a fad. Apparently, it wasn’t. Most youngsters would get their tongue pierced because it asserts their individuality and uniqueness by breaking society’s norm. It also denotes rebellion against their authoritative figures. Apart from that, some people derive sexual pleasure from their tongue piercings. Cool, hip, rebellious and sexy, tongue piercing has gained considerable following and cultural significance. Unfortunately, tongue piercing also carries with it the risk of getting an infection.

Tongue piercing is done by making a hole through the tongue. Since the mouth is full of bacteria, there is a risk of infection since the bacteria can enter into the blood through the piercing hole. From there, complications may arise.

Endocarditis strikes when bacteria enter the blood stream, which can cause weakening of the heart valves. Ludwig’s angina, on the other hand, is swelling of the mouth and jaw, which can cause difficulty in breathing.

There is also the added danger of getting HIV and hepatitis infections. The use of unsterilized equipment and instruments in piercing the tongue is the likely culprit here. To reduce this risk, make sure that the instruments used are clean and safe. To avoid any allergic reactions, follow the instructions on caring for the pierced tongue.