Snakebite piercing involves piercing the lower lip twice, creating two holes that resemble snake bites. It is a popular and simple procedure, but precautions must be taken to ensure proper healing and prevent injury. Swelling is common, and appropriate jewelry and cleaning are important. People with oral jewelry should avoid biting down on it to prevent mouth injuries.
A snakebite piercing is when the lower lip is pierced twice, once on each side. This creates two holes that look like a snake bite. Several different types of body jewelry can be worn with this piercing, such as labrets, rings, or barbells. The two pieces of jewelry are sometimes connected with a chain or combined with a tattoo. The piercing can also be directly on the lip or sometimes just below the lip. This type of piercing is somewhat popular and is a relatively simple procedure. Like all body piercings, some basic precautions must be taken to ensure proper healing and prevent injury.
Like most lip and oral piercings, a snakebite piercing will usually heal quickly and easily. The mouth area has an ample blood supply, which helps speed healing. The piercing is done in a similar way to other oral piercings. The piercer marks the areas to be pierced and then uses a clamp to hold the lip and inserts the piercing needle, followed by the jewelry. Most snakebite piercings are done all at once, although it is sometimes suggested to pierce one side, wait for it to heal, and then pierce the other. This method can minimize swelling and speed healing.
Swelling is a common problem with snake bite piercings. The piercer can help choose appropriate body jewelry that will leave enough room to accommodate the initial swelling. Although most swelling is mild and goes away in a short period of time, jewelry that is too tight can prevent the piercing from healing properly and can also cause infection. If a snakebite piercing causes a lot of pain, bleeding, or swelling, the jewelry may be too small and should be exchanged for a larger set.
Proper cleaning is also very important for a new piercing. Many piercing studios recommend rinsing with a medicated mouthwash several times a day, even after all meals. The outside of the piercing should also be rinsed with saline solution or soap and water. Jewelry should not be removed for cleaning because oral piercings can close up very quickly.
People who have a snakebite piercing or other oral jewelry should be careful not to bite down on it, as this can chip or break teeth or cause other injuries to the mouth. Take small bites of food when you eat and chew slowly. After the piercing has fully healed and there is no further swelling, return to the piercing shop for shorter labrets, as incorrectly sized jewelry can also contribute to mouth injuries.
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