This is my 4th tattoo... i done it in spain, madrid in 2000 after a long time i wanted it :)
I'll have My New Tattoo done on thursday the 14th Of March!!! :)))))))))
In the ancient temples of the Aztecs and Mayans, Shamens and High Priests pierced their tongues as part of a ritual to communicate with their gods. Thousands of years later, and it is still a popular piercing, although for different reasons. Both men and women can find it sexually arousing, as well as empowering.
Tongue piercings are usually placed in the center of the tongue. The risks of nerve and blood vessel damage are minimized when the piercing is placed centrally. The large blood vessels are usually highly visible to either side, on the underside of the tongue. Tongue piercings are not known to affect the sense of taste; the papillae (tastebuds) are too numerous. Placement should be decided with regard to the length of the tongue both in its normal resting position in the mouth as well as when it is extended.
While there is some latitude as to how far forward or back the piercing can be placed, a piercing made through or just behind the natural bend in the tongue is usually most comfortable for speaking and eating. A piercing placed too far back may be uncomfortable and will irritate the frenulum, if one is present. If the piercing is placed too far forward the bottom ball will irritate the gums.
The piercing should be as perpendicular to the tongue as possible. An extremely slanted piercing (top hole further back than bottom hole) creates stress on the entrances which can result in scarring. A slanted piercing often pushes the bottom ball against the gums causing irritation and erosion of the gums.
The bottom of the mouth or lower gums may become irritated from pressure and friction exerted by the bottom barbell ball. Irritation is usually eliminated by shortening the barbell. If the ball continues to rub against the gums after the barbell is shortened a smaller ball or disc with rounded edges should be worn. If the piercing is too close to the tip of the tongue or slanted the ball will rub against the gums regardless of the ball size. Over the long term continued pressure will cause erosion of the gums and possibly bone loss beneath the gums, indicated by an indentation in the gums.
Chipped and cracked teeth and enamel erosion are risks of tongue piercing. Wearing smaller balls, in addition to downsizing the bar length, is advised if the wearer accidentally bites down on the balls while eating. Over the long term metal tongue jewelry will contribute to the erosion of tooth enamel as the balls hit and scrape the teeth. Cracked and badly chipped teeth are subject to accelerated decay and exposure of the nerve (root) which could require endodontistry (root canal). The risk of damage is increased if the teeth are already structurally weakened by large fillings or caps.
The frenulum is the web of tissue which runs lengthwise along the underside of the tongue, usually present in most people to some degree. Piercing through the frenulum often leads to scarring. If a frenulum is presnt the piercing should be made in front or to the side if possible. If the frenulum is large or extrudes it may become irritated by the jewelry enough to create scar tissue. A smaller bottom ball can reduce irritation.
If the frenulum presents too much difficulty in placement the piercee should consider having the frenulum clipped by a dentist or oral surgeon. This procedure is commonly performed when the frenulum interferes with speaking or some other daily activity.
We would like to thank all-body-piercing.com for this information.
