You should expect that your tongue will be swollen and sore for anywhere between one to ten days. It usually takes about three to four weeks in total for a tongue piercing to heal. Making sure to follow all aftercare instructions will help your healing process go more smoothly. If you see evidence of infection after the first week that appears to be getting worse, including continued swelling, discoloration, discharge, or irritation, you should consult a doctor. Find out more in our blog article "What to Know About Mouth & Tongue Piercings."