What is one of the possible complications of a tongue piercing?

A tongue piercing can lead to various complications, and one significant issue is the potential for chipped teeth. This occurs primarily due to the contact of the jewelry with the teeth, especially during activities such as chewing or speaking. The metal jewelry can create friction against the enamel, leading to chipping or cracking of the tooth structure.

This risk is heightened with certain types of jewelry, which may be larger or have sharper edges. Additionally, the movement of the tongue can inadvertently strike the teeth, resulting in the same harmful effects. Recognizing the risk of chipped teeth emphasizes the importance of careful monitoring and maintenance of oral health after getting a tongue piercing.

Other options, while they may present some complications related to oral health and piercings, do not directly correlate to the typical outcomes associated with tongue piercings. For instance, receding gums and root fractures are more commonly related to periodontal issues or trauma rather than the presence of a tongue piercing. Enamel hypoplasia is a developmental condition that affects the enamel's formation rather than being a direct consequence of oral piercings. Therefore, the risk of chipped teeth stands out as a notably relevant and common complication in this scenario.