In the spring of 1997 a total of 3,741 students in 92 public high schools on New York State participated in the Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Body piercing done on various parts of the body has been practiced by many cultures for thousands of years. Using sterile instruments and jewelry reduces the incidence of infections.
Some people develop an allergic reaction to the metal properties in the jewelry.
If you are thinking of having your body pierced or are the parent of a would-be piercer, remember that the health risks are considerable. The procedure can be very painful. Piercings are done without anesthetics, since only a doctor can prescribe and administer anesthetics. Infection is the main danger. Speech impairment, nerve damage, eating difficulties, and metal allergies are the other long-term possibilities with any kind of mouth piercing.