Aftercare

Oral piercing aftercare

Last updated — August 20, 2026

Illustration of a mouth with two lower-lip piercings
A person tilting their head back to rinse from a cup

Clean inside and outside with saline solution

Rinse your mouth 2–3 times a day with sterile saline or an alcohol-free mouthwash. Clean the outside area (lip or surrounding skin) by gently applying saline with a sterile gauze—do not scrub.

A person covering their mouth with a hand marked with an X

Avoid touching or moving the jewelry

Do not twist, play with, or move the jewelry. Keep your hands out of your mouth to prevent bacteria from entering.

A toothbrush brushing a row of teeth

Maintain good oral hygiene

Brush your teeth gently, avoiding direct contact with the jewelry, and keep your tongue clean.

A hand holding a bowl of vegetables

Adjust your diet during the first days

Avoid very hot, spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods. Choose cold or lukewarm options that won't irritate the piercing.

Three ice cubes

Reduce swelling and discomfort

Suck on crushed ice or drink cold beverages to help with swelling. Avoid alcohol and tobacco for at least 48–72 hours.

An open mouth with a tongue piercing

Watch for normal and warning signs

Mild swelling, extra saliva, and small bruises are normal during the first days. Seek a professional if you experience severe pain, constant bleeding, foul odor, yellow pus, or trouble moving your tongue.

Questions about your healing?

If anything about your healing looks or feels wrong, contact El Estuche Ink LLC directly rather than waiting:

Email: elestucheink@gmail.com

Phone: (434) 515-4020