A RISING CONCERN: A CASE OF PERFORATION OF THE FLOOR OF THE MOUTH CAUSED BY TONGUE PIERCING

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this study is to present a case of an infection in the oral cavity due to tongue piercing perforated into the floor of the mouth, thus to raise concern over the increasing popularity of tongue piercing in spite of its risks including perforation in the oral cavity and oral ulcers. Case Report: A sixteen-year-old female patient presented to the clinic with lesions and extreme pain in her oral cavity. The thorough examination showed displacement of the piercing through the tongue, causing a perforation of the floor of the mouth. The piercing was surgically removed. The ulcers were treated with medication. The patient was advised to get professional help and was instructed to pay close attention to oral hygiene in case of reiterated demand for tongue piercing. Conclusion: It is important to ensure that piercing is inserted by a specialist under sterile conditions to prevent complications. If a surgical operation is needed to treat the complications occurred, the clinicians must be aware of the critical veins and nerves that are located in the oral cavity and they should be very careful not to cause any harm during the operation.