While any piercing can get infected, some are more prone to infection than others. Oral piercings, such as lip, tongue, and cheek piercings, are particularly susceptible to infection due to the constant exposure to bacteria in the mouth.
Here's why:
- High Bacterial Concentration: The mouth naturally harbors a large amount of bacteria.
- Constant Movement: Oral piercings are constantly moving, which can irritate the healing tissue and increase the risk of infection.
- Sharing Objects: Sharing items like straws, utensils, or cigarettes with someone who has an oral piercing can increase the risk of transmitting bacteria.
Other piercings that are more likely to get infected include:
- Earlobe piercings: These are common piercings, but they can still become infected if proper hygiene practices are not followed.
- Cartilage piercings: These piercings take longer to heal and are more prone to infection because cartilage does not have a good blood supply.
- Navel piercings: These piercings are located in a warm, moist area that can be easily irritated by clothing or sweat.
It's important to note that the risk of infection depends on several factors, including the piercer's experience, the piercing's location, and the individual's immune system.
To minimize the risk of infection, it's essential to follow proper aftercare instructions, which may include:
- Cleaning the piercing regularly with saline solution.
- Avoiding touching the piercing with dirty hands.
- Keeping the piercing dry and free from irritation.
- Following the piercer's recommendations for healing time.
