(Labret, tongue & cheek)
Healing Time
Healing time varies greatly among these piercings. The tongue can heal within 6 weeks, where the cheek and labret can take 3-6 months. Even though the tongue is healed, it is still not toughened up enough yo remove the jewelry. It can be changed within two weeks, but not removed for an extended period of time.
Cleaning
One of the most important things to remember with a new oral piercing is absolutely no oral contact or oral sex without a barrier for at least 4 weeks.
To clean, rinse with an Alcohol-free mouthwash 3 to 4 times a day or after every major meal. The rest of the time, rinse with sea salt solution which consists of 1/4 teaspoon per 8oz. of water after the consumption of anything but water. This should be done for 2-4 weeks.
You should brush your tongue twice a day while brushing your teeth.
Remember to check the tightness of the balls of your barbell. Once the swelling of the piercing goes down, usually 10-14 days, you can insert a shorter barbell. This also applies to labret and cheek piercings, concerning the flatback that is used.
To reduce or minimize swelling, playing with these piercings should be kept to a minimum. Crushed ice in the mouth can also help. Do not drink through straws, click the piercing on your teeth, or stick your tongue barbell out past the teeth for about two weeks.
To clean the outside of a labret or cheek piercing, first remove any dried matter on the jewelry and around the piercing using a sea salt soak, consisting of 1/8 teaspoon per 8oz. cup of water. Wash and rinse the outside once a day with an anti-bacterial soap such as Provon, Dial, or Softsoap.
If any sign of infection is seen in the tongue, contact your physician immediately, as infection inside the mouth can turn serious very quickly.
Again, any questions, comments, or problems, please feel free to contact us, by either calling, or stopping in. Enjoy your new piercing!
