The Irish Dental Association (IDA) is warning young people that oral piercings pose a significant risk to their health and in extreme cases can result in life-threatening illness and infections.
Some of the issues that can arise from piercings include the transfer of diseases such as hepatitis B, C, and D; endocarditis; periodontal disease; nerve and tooth damage; and allergic reaction to metals, the IDA noted in a press release.
The IDA said its members see an increase in the number of young patients presenting with oral piercing-related issues between August and December every year. Anecdotal evidence suggests this may be due to young people attending music festivals, going on holiday with their friends, and preparing to start college.
Young people with heart murmurs could be especially at risk, the association emphasized.
