Tongue studs cause more problems than chipped teeth

[Bandit]

Wearing a tongue stud puts people at risk for chipped teeth, recessed gums and nerve damage. However, most people don't realize that getting an oral piercing also places them at risk for developing a fatal infection, such as Ludwig's angina or endocarditis, according to a report in the May/June 2004 issue of General Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry's (AGD) clinical, peer-reviewed journal.
Ludwig's angina, a bacterial infection of the floor of the mouth, occurs after a tooth infection, mouth injury, oral surgery and oral piercings. After getting an oral piercing, the mouth has an open wound which allows bacteria to travel through the bloodstream. Bacteria then cause the floor of the mouth to rapidly swell, which can block the airway or prevent the swallowing of saliva.
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"Most body piercers are unlicensed and are not members of the medical profession," says William J. Dunn, DDS, MAGD, ABGD, author of the study. "Because of this, health histories are not recorded or reviewed, emergency medical kits are not available, antibiotics are not prescribed and postoperative care is not available."
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"I don't recommend piercing," says Dr. Pierson. "Because of the risks associated with this unregulated procedure, if someone is considering an oral piercing, they should discuss it with their medical or dental professional."

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2004-06/aogd-tsc060904.php

[JaySherman]

1. Oh brother.

I don't have any body piercings, nor do I plan on getting any, but do they really have to insist on taking the fun out of everything?

I'm going to lock myself in my apartment now, because walking to work every day puts me at risk of a fatal accident.

Please. :eyes:

[Senior citizen]

2. I've seen quite a few young people with tongue studs

And they all looked exuberantly healthy to me.

[Fenris]

3. I didn't know Ludwig had an angina.

She had a boy's name.