Tongue Piercing – What is it, how does it heal, and what do you need to know?

A tongue piercing is an oral piercing where a barbell (a straight bar with balls) is placed through the center of the tongue. The tongue piercing is one of the most popular piercings in the world — noticeable when the mouth is open, yet discreet in daily use. Healing time: 4 to 6 weeks with proper care. Recommended materials: titanium, surgical steel, or bioplast.

Characteristics of a tongue piercing

The tongue piercing is placed in the center of the tongue, directly through the muscle tissue. The most commonly used piece of jewelry is a straight barbell — a bar with a ball at each end. Immediately after piercing, a longer barbell is inserted to accommodate swelling. After healing, this is replaced by a shorter barbell to prevent tooth damage.

Materials for tongue piercings

Titanium — 100% nickel-free, lightweight, and the safest choice for oral piercings. Recommended for the initial piercing.

Surgical steel (316L) — strong and durable. Low nickel but theoretically contains traces of nickel — less suitable for nickel allergies.

Bioplast — flexible, lightweight, and tooth-friendly. Popular choice for people who want to minimize tooth damage.

Getting a tongue piercing

A tongue piercing is always performed by an experienced piercer. The process is as follows: the mouth and instruments are sterilized, the exact spot is measured to avoid nerves and blood vessels, a hollow needle pierces the hole, and the barbell is inserted. The procedure takes only a few seconds. Most people experience minimal pain — the subsequent swelling is often more uncomfortable than the piercing itself.

Healing and aftercare

The healing time for a tongue piercing is 4 to 6 weeks. During healing, these tips are essential:

Cleaning — rinse your mouth several times a day with a mild, alcohol-free mouthwash. Also rinse after every meal.

Eating and drinking — eat soft foods for the first few days. Avoid alcohol, spicy, and acidic foods — these slow down healing.

Reduce swelling — suck on ice cubes or drink cold water to reduce swelling.

Jewelry change — after full healing, have the longer barbell replaced with a shorter one — always by a professional piercer.

Tongue piercing and tooth damage

A too-long piece of jewelry or playing with the barbell can cause tooth damage or gum problems. Always choose the correct size barbell and consult your piercer about the best length for your anatomy. Bioplast barbells are softer and more tooth-friendly than metal variants.

Frequently asked questions about tongue piercings

Does a tongue piercing hurt?

Most people experience minimal pain. The piercing itself only takes a few seconds. The swelling and discomfort afterward are often more bothersome than the piercing itself and subside within a few days.

How long does it take for a tongue piercing to heal?

On average 4 to 6 weeks with proper care. Continue to care for the piercing even if it appears healed.

Can a tongue piercing damage teeth?

Yes, if the barbell is too long or you play with the piercing a lot. After healing, have the barbell replaced with a shorter one. Bioplast is a more tooth-friendly choice than metal.

Which material is best for a tongue piercing?

Titanium is the safest choice — 100% nickel-free and lightweight. Surgical steel is also suitable but theoretically contains traces of nickel. Bioplast is flexible and tooth-friendly.

Can I wear a tongue piercing if I have a nickel allergy?

Then choose titanium or bioplast. Avoid surgical steel if you have a true nickel allergy.

Buy tongue piercing jewelry

Discover our range of piercings — available in titanium, surgical steel, and bioplast. Free shipping in the Netherlands. Shipping to Europe €9.95. Order now →

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