Is Frenulum (Gum) Piercing Right For You?
The frenulum gum piercing is super cool and trendy due to its unique placement. The jewellery doesn't exactly go on your lips but somehow through that tiny piece of skin connecting your upper gum to the inside of your top lip. This area is a frenulum, and people also call it a place for smiley piercing.
The name "smiley" comes from the fact that you can show your bling when smiling or even talking. Some people get a similar piercing between their bottom lip and gum, but that one's called a "frownie."
If your mouth is shaped just right for the frenulum, it's one of the least painful piercings since the area is so thin.
A big perk of gum piercing is that it's the low-key one, among others. You can easily hide it for work reasons and show it off for fun at parties.
Tons of piercing jewellery designs make it even more subtle to play around and find the best fit.
Sure, mouth piercings need the same aftercare as others, but they usually heal faster. And since the smiley sits snugly between your lip and front teeth, it's less likely to get caught on anything.
What Really Happens?
First off, let's clear up a common misconception: when you get a smiley piercing, it's not actually through your gums.
Typically, it is placed above the upper teeth, where the tissue connects the upper lip to the gums. A piercer puts the jewellery inside the area, and you are good to go by following some aftercare tips.
Who Can Get a Smiley Piercing?
Not everyone's got the right setup for a smiley piercing. Your piercer will check out the size and shape of your frenulum to see if it's good to go for a smiley.
If it turns out a smiley isn't a match for you, don't worry; they can suggest other cool piercing jewellery options that might be a better fit.
Is Smiley Piercing Right for You?
Before you decide on a smiley piercing, think about your past experiences and lifestyle. Did you have braces? If you couldn't stand them because they bothered you, a smiley piercing might not be the best choice.
Also, if you have dental problems like gum disease, receding gums, or enamel issues, it's best to skip the smiley. Even if your teeth are just sensitive, the metal jewellery could make things worse by rubbing against your gums and teeth.
Considering Your Lifestyle and Career
During the healing phase, having a smiley can affect everyday activities like eating, drinking, brushing your teeth, and intimate moments with a partner. Knowing these factors upfront can help you decide if you're up for the commitment.
Stylish Jewellery Choices for Your Smiley Piercing
Circular Barbell
Start off with a classic! The trendy circular barbell jewellery looks like a horseshoe with removable balls at each end. It's the go-to option that stays popular even after years.
Captive Bead Ring (CBR)
This hoop has a ball in the centre that keeps it secure. You can swap the ball for decorative options, making the CBR super fit for all occasions.
Seamless Rings
For a minimalist trend, go with a seamless ring on your gum. It's a continuous circle that snaps or bends closed. They're simple yet come in various colours to match your vibe.
Additional Care Tips
Taking care of an oral piercing is super important to avoid untold complications and other problems. Here are some everyday tips and remedies you could try:
- If your piercing feels swollen, try sucking on ice chips to help bring down the swelling. The cold can also numb the area for a bit, which might make you feel better.
- Avoid spicy foods; they can irritate your piercing, especially while it's healing.
- Stick to cooler, softer foods until your piercing calms down. If you have a teething baby or access to teething toys, chewing on clean toys can give relief without bothering your piercing.
- Use sterile saline solution from the pharmacy to clean your piercing gently. It's effective and doesn't have harsh chemicals.
- If you play sports or grind your teeth, get a custom mouthguard from your dentist. It'll protect your piercing and keep your teeth safe.
- Don't use toothpaste directly on your piercing; it can be too rough. Rinse gently with water or saline solution after brushing.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. It helps healing and keeps your mouth moist, which is good for your piercing.
- Manage stress with deep breathing or meditation. Stress can slow healing, so staying relaxed can help you heal faster.
- Try not to touch or play with your piercing too much. It can introduce bacteria and cause irritation.
Choosing a smiley piercing opens up a world of stylish piercing jewellery designs once you're healed. Check if it's right for you, and once you decide, Urban Body Jewelry has top-notch pieces to keep your smiley looking fresh.