Canker Sores: They appear as small white or gray ulcers inside the mouth, usually around the inside of the cheek, lip, or gum. There can be only one or several and may often return. They are caused by a number of reasons including fatigue, stress, bacteria, viruses, or allergies.

Cold Sores: Also called fever blisters or Herpes Simplex. They come in groups of fluid filled blisters around the lips and mouth, and sometimes around the nose and chin. You must be careful if you have a cold sore because they are very contagious if caused by the herpes virus type 1. Once you have a cold sore outbreak, the virus stays in your blood and can cause occasional outbreaks.

Leukoplakia: This comes in a thick, white patch around the inside of the cheek, gum, or tongue They are caused by excess cell growth and can be common among smokers. These patches can progress to cancer so it is important to see your dentist immediately if you find this patch in your mouth.

Candidiasis: Also called moniliasis or oral thrush and is a fungal infection. Denture wearers may experience this condition as well as children, elderly, or those with weak immune systems.

Not only can the piece of jewelry build up bacteria, it can chip and fracture your teeth. This is the most common dental problem caused by oral piercings. This can occur while talking, eating, chewing, and possibly sleeping. Depending on the severity of the fracture, a filling or root canal will have to be done to save the tooth.

A tongue piercing can lead to higher levels of bacteria in your body and heart. When the tongue is pierced, it is exposing the center of your tongue, allowing bacteria to travel through your bloodstream. This bacteria and plaque can travel to your heart and damage arteries and cell walls and could possibly cause other cardiovascular problems.

Other risks associated with oral piercings include infections, swelling, pain, scarring, tooth loss, gum damage, loss of taste, and mouth sores. If you are considering an oral piercing, make sure you are committed to good oral hygiene first. Taking proper care of the piercing area and the jewelry will decrease your chances of infection. If possible, remove the jewelry while sleeping and eating to reduce the risk of a chipped or fractured tooth.