They probably are right. A body piercing essentially is a surgical procedure, but there are no training schools or certification standards for piercers, says Terri Tiersky, a general dentist and lawyer who testified before a Chicago City Council committee about the dangers of oral piercings. Lawmakers are now beginning to create laws that address the health concerns of oral piercing, including hygiene standards. The procedure typically is performed in tattoo parlors, hair and nail salons, music concerts, and in the homes of individuals with little or no training. Piercings are done without anesthetic since in Illinois, only a dentist, physician or podiatrist can prescribe and administer anesthetics.
Many kids have piercings performed while they are drunk, using alcohol as the sedative.
Oral piercing involves the puncture of cheeks, lips and tongue to place silver or gold jewelry for ornamental decoration. Permanent jewelry is placed and worn constantly after this period. The front part of the face between the lower lip and chin also is becoming a popular place for ornamentation. Piercings of the tongue, lips and cheeks carry serious risks. The piercing of oral structures presents risks of infection because of vast amounts of bacteria in the mouth and may cause airway obstruction because of swelling, according to Dr. Gary Armitage, chair of the ADA s Council on Scientific Affairs.