The Real Talk FAQ, Tongue Piercing Jewellery 101

If you're thinking about getting your tongue pierced, or you've already had your piercing done. Tongue piercings are bold, edgy, and surprisingly unique. But they also come with a ton of questions and a fair share of myths.

Let’s go over some of the most asked questions about tongue piercing jewellery, healing, pain, risks, and care.

What Does a Tongue Piercing Feel Like?

Honestly? It’s not as bad as you think. Most people say it feels like a sharp pinch, and it’s over in seconds. The swelling afterwards is more uncomfortable than the actual piercing. Everybody is different, though, so pain levels can vary a bit.

What If I Pull My Tongue Back Mid-Piercing?

Your piercer should be prepared for that, but seriously, don’t move. If you pull back mid-procedure, you risk messing up the alignment or worse, causing extra discomfort.

Trust your professional and stay as still as possible. They’ll usually clamp your tongue to prevent this from happening.

What Types of Tongue Piercings Exist?

You’ve probably heard of the classic centre tongue piercing, but there are several tongue piercing types to choose from:

• Tip of tongue piercing: Right at the front, more visible.

• Side tongue piercing: Off-centre, gives a unique twist.

• Under tongue piercing: Also known as the frenulum piercing, placed underneath.

Each has a different vibe and healing process, so choose one that matches your aesthetic and your anatomy.

Could My Tongue Be Too Short to Pierce?

Yes, it's possible. If your tongue doesn’t extend far enough or has too much webbing underneath, a traditional tongue piercing may not be an option. A professional piercer will always check your anatomy before proceeding.

What Can I Eat While It’s Healing?

This one is one of the most frequently asked questions and is a big concern for almost all of the people.

During the initial tongue piercing healing stage (which lasts about two weeks), stick with:

• Cold and soft foods like yoghurt, smoothies, and soup

• Avoid spicy, hot, crunchy, or sticky foods

• Stay hydrated with cool water

If you’re wondering how to heal a tongue piercing fast, avoiding irritants and being gentle with your mouth. This is a very important thing to keep in mind.

Will I Talk Funny?

Yes, but only for the first few days. Swelling and the presence of a tongue ring will change how your tongue moves, but don’t worry. You’ll adapt quickly. Most people are back to speaking clearly within a week.

Why Shouldn’t I Use Listerine to Clean It?

Alcohol-based mouthwashes like Listerine are too harsh and can actually damage the healing tissue. For proper tongue piercing aftercare, use a non-alcoholic, saline-based rinse after eating or drinking anything except water.

Do I Have to Buy a Whole New Barbell After Healing?

Initially, your piercer will use a longer barbell to accommodate swelling. After the healing process (around 4-6 weeks), you’ll switch to a shorter one to avoid damaging your gums and teeth. So yes, a new barbell is necessary but it’s a good thing!

Can a Tongue Piercing Damage My Teeth or Gums?

Sadly, yes. If your tongue stud is too long or you're constantly playing with it, it can chip your teeth or wear down your gums. That’s why switching to the right jewellery post-healing is so important.

Can I Hide a Tongue Piercing?

One of the best things about a pierced tongue is how easy it is to hide. Unless you're laughing with your mouth wide open or sticking out your tongue. Just be aware that some types, like the tip of tongue piercing, can be a little bit more visible than other types.

Can I Lose My Sense of Taste?

While it’s very rare, it can happen if the piercing hits the wrong spot. This is why choosing an experienced professional is crucial. Most people with piercings on tongue report no long-term issues with taste at all.

Can I Change the Jewellery Myself?

Technically, yes. But it’s not recommended for beginners. Wait until your tongue piercing healing process is complete (at least 4–6 weeks), and even then, visit a piercer for the first change. Improper handling can irritate the area or introduce bacteria.

Do Tongue Piercings Close Up?

If you remove the jewellery for too long, especially in the first few months, then, yes. Tongue piercings do close quickly. How long it takes for the tongue piercing to close is subjective.

Some people can go years and still reinsert their tongue stud, while others find it closes in hours.

Can I Take Out a Tongue Piercing Anytime?

Yes, but please proceed with caution. If your piercing is fresh, removing the jewellery may cause the hole to shrink or close up completely.

How Long Does It Take for a Tongue Piercing to Heal?

You’ll hear a lot of answers to how long does a tongue piercing take to heal. This is because there is no correct answer. This depends on a number of factors. On average:

• Initial healing: 2–3 weeks (swelling goes down)

• Full healing: 4–6 weeks

Your body’s healing time may differ, so stay on top of your tongue piercing aftercare even if things look fine.

What About Kissing and Oral Sex?

You’ll want to avoid both during the healing process. Saliva, friction, and bacteria from someone else’s mouth can irritate the fresh tongue piercing.

How Do Tongue Piercings Work?

Your piercer clamps your tongue, marks the entry and exit points, and uses a hollow needle to pierce through. Then the barbell is inserted, and you’re good to go. A short recovery period follows, and then you’re ready to rock your look.

Is a Tongue Piercing Worth It?

This completely depends on you. If you love a bold but subtle statement, don’t mind a few weeks of adjustment, and are cool with keeping up your oral hygiene, then yes. Many say a tongue pierce is one of their favourites and least painful piercings.

Do Tongue Piercings Hurt Later?

Usually, the pain is short-term. Once healed, most people forget they even have it until someone compliments their tongue ring. If you ever feel sharp or new pain later on, check for issues like migration or infection and see a piercer.

Extra Tips for the Best Tongue Piercing Experience

• Always choose titanium or surgical steel for your first tongue piercing jewellery

• Don’t smoke or vape during healing. It slows recovery

• Avoid alcohol, spicy foods, and chewing gum

• Sleep with your head slightly elevated to reduce swelling

A tongue piercing can be a powerful expression of style if you do it right. Follow proper care routine, listen to your body, and don’t skimp on quality jewellery. Whether you’re curious about a side tongue piercing, wondering how do tongue piercings work, or just freaking out about talking weirdly, we hope this guide gave you all the answers.