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A smiley piercing is a discreet oral piercing that goes through the frenulum, the small piece of tissue connecting your upper lip to your gums. This piercing is invisible when your mouth is closed but becomes visible when you smile, giving it the playful name "smiley piercing."

Not everyone is eligible for this piercing. Your piercer will assess whether your frenulum is thick enough to support the jewelry. Additionally, individuals with braces, gum disease, or other oral health issues such as periodontitis may not be suitable candidates for this piercing.

How Much Does A Smiley Piercing Cost?

The cost of a smiley piercing typically ranges between $30 to $90, depending on the piercer’s experience and the studio's location. Some shops may charge separately for the jewelry, and it’s important to ensure that the piercer uses sterile equipment, especially given the high risk of bacteria in the mouth.

Don’t forget to factor in costs for aftercare products like saline solution and a 20% tip for the piercer. It’s crucial to set your piercing up for success by ensuring the procedure is done in a sterile environment with high-quality materials.

See Also: Medusa Piercing - Everything You Need To Know

How Painful Is A Smiley Piercing?

Although the frenulum is a thin piece of tissue, many report that a smiley piercing is slightly more painful than expected. Thin tissues can sometimes be more sensitive than thicker areas, resulting in a sharp, brief pain when the needle passes through. That said, the discomfort is short-lived, as the piercing procedure only takes a few seconds.

Individual pain toleranceplays a big role, and while some may feel only a minor pinch, others may experience more discomfort. The good news is that with proper care, healing is relatively fast, and pain subsides within a few days.

Smiley Piercing Aftercare: Essential Tips

Aftercare is crucial for preventing complications with a smiley piercing, as the mouth is home to a large amount of bacteria. To keep the piercing clean, rinse with saline solution or a sea salt rinse two to three times daily. Since you can’t soak this piercing, rinsing is the best method for maintaining cleanliness.

During the first few days, stick to soft foods to avoid irritating the piercing. The initial jewelry is often slightly larger to accommodate swelling, so be mindful of snags while eating. Avoid touching the jewelry, as moving it can introduce bacteria and cause rejection.

It’s also important to refrain from kissing and other intimate oral activities during the healing period. Even gentle activities can introduce bacteria and disrupt the healing process. Stick to alcohol-free mouthwash to prevent irritation. Following piercing expert tipscan ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of infection.

How Long Does It Take To Heal?

A smiley piercing typically takes 4 to 12 weeks to heal, with individual healing times varying based on your body’s response and how well you follow aftercare instructions. While mild pain and swelling are normal in the first couple of weeks, these symptoms should gradually decrease.

If you notice signs of infection, such as yellow or green discharge, redness beyond the piercing site, or a foul odor, consult your piercer or healthcare provider. Rejection is also a possibility, and if the piercing begins to shift or the tissue becomes too thin to hold the jewelry, it may need to be removed.

Risks And Potential Complications

Smiley piercings come with several risks due to their placement in an extremely sensitive area:

• Gum damage:Incorrect placement of the jewelry can lead to gum recession over time, especially if the jewelry sits too high or rubs against the gums.
• Enamel damage:Large beads or attachments on the jewelry can knock against the teeth, potentially damaging the enamel or causing tooth movement.
• Infection:The mouth naturally contains bacteria from eating, drinking, and oral activities. If bacteria become trapped in the piercing site, infection may occur.
• Rejection:Your body might push the jewelry out by building more skin tissue, leading to migration or the complete loss of the piercing.

Proper aftercare and regular check-ups with your piercer can help minimize these risks.

Jewelry Options For Smiley Piercing

Several types of jewelry are commonly used for smiley piercings, and your piercer can help you select the best option for your anatomy and style. Crafting unique jewelry designsis key when selecting pieces like captive bead rings, circular barbells, and seamless rings, all of which offer different aesthetic choices.

• Captive Bead Ring:This is a popular choice for new smiley piercings. The ring is circular, and a small bead secures the jewelry in place. The bead is usually the only visible part when you smile.
• Circular Barbell:Shaped like a horseshoe, this option has two beads on either end and is a favorite for its bold, symmetrical look.
• Seamless Ring:For those who prefer subtlety, a seamless ring can be used once the piercing has healed. This type of jewelry doesn’t have a bead and provides a more minimalist appearance.

When choosing jewelry material, titanium is often recommended due to its hypoallergenic properties, especially for those with sensitive skin. Surgical steel and niobium are also popular options, though some people may experience irritation with these materials. If opting for gold, stick to 14-karat varieties to avoid complications, as higher karat gold can be too soft and gold-plated jewelry may cause allergic reactions.

Read Also: Everything You Need To Know About Eyebrow Piercing

FAQs

Is A Smiley Piercing Safe For Everyone?

Not everyone can get a smiley piercing. People with thin frenulums, braces, or oral health issues like gum disease are typically not good candidates.

Can You Eat Normally With A Smiley Piercing?

You’ll need to stick to soft foods for the first few days to avoid irritating the piercing. Over time, you’ll adjust to eating with the jewelry, but always be cautious of snags.

How Long Before You Can Change Smiley Piercing Jewelry?

It’s best to wait at least 12 weeks before changing the jewelry. Consult with your piercer to ensure the piercing has healed properly before making any changes.

What Happens If My Smiley Piercing Rejects?

If the piercing starts to migrate or if the tissue becomes too thin to support the jewelry, rejection may occur. Removal of the jewelry is often the best option to prevent further damage.

Can You Get A Smiley Piercing If You Have Braces?

It’s generally not recommended to get a smiley piercing while wearing braces, as the jewelry can easily get caught on the braces, causing discomfort and damage.

Final Thoughts

A smiley piercing is a unique and fun way to express yourself, but it’s important to understand the potential risks and the need for careful aftercare. The piercing may not be suitable for everyone due to its delicate placement, but with the right care and high-quality jewelry, it can be a stylish and temporary addition to your look. Regular checkups with your piercer and diligent hygiene practices will help ensure a smooth healing process.