Process And Aftercare Of Smiley Piercing

Smiley piercing is a unique and subtle facial piercing that has gained significant popularity in recent years. Positioned just under the upper lip, through the frenulum, this piercing adds a playful and distinctive aesthetic to one’s smile. Unlike more traditional facial piercings like nose rings or lip piercings, the smiley piercing offers a hidden yet intriguing adornment, only visible when the wearer smiles or speaks. 

Smiley piercing

Smiley piercing is a type of oral piercing that is placed on the frenulum, the thin membrane of tissue that connects the upper lip to the gums. The piercing is done with a small jewellery piece, such as a hoop or a curved barbell, and is usually very subtle when viewed from the outside. It becomes most visible when the person smiles, hence the name smiley.

Though it is a type of oral piercing, it differs from other types, such as the Monroe or Medusa piercings, which are done on the lip. The smiley piercing is an internal piercing and typically remains hidden when the mouth is closed, which makes it a great choice for people who want a discreet yet unique form of self-expression.

Why choose a smiley piercing?

Smiley piercings are chosen for a variety of reasons. For some, the aesthetic appeal is the biggest draw: the piercing offers a distinctive look that is both playful and subtle. Here are a few of the top reasons why people opt for a smiley piercing:

1) Subtlety: Since the piercing is hidden under the lip and only visible when you smile, it is a great choice for people who want a piercing that is not overly conspicuous. The smiley piercing adds a unique touch without being immediately obvious.

2) Personal expression: Like other types of body piercings, smiley piercings serve as a form of self-expression. People choose smiley piercings for the individuality they offer, helping the wearer stand out in a way that is often different from more common facial piercings.

3) Aesthetic versatility: The smiley piercing works well with various jewelry types. Depending on the style and size of the hoop or barbell, it can add a fun and unique touch to your overall appearance. Some wearers opt for decorative jewellery with gemstones or other embellishments, enhancing the look further.

4) Temporary appearance: The advantage of the smiley piercing is its discreetness. Many people prefer piercings that are visible only on occasion, such as when they smile or laugh, giving them the flexibility to showcase their piercing or keep it hidden depending on their preference.

5) Relatively low maintenance: When done correctly, smiley piercings are relatively easy to maintain compared to other more invasive piercings, and they tend to heal faster than piercings in areas like the nose or lip.

Smiley piercing process

Before deciding to get a smiley piercing, it is crucial to understand the procedure and what you can expect during the process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what happens during the smiley piercing procedure:

1) Consultation and choosing a piercing studio

The first step in the process is to consult with a professional piercer. It is vital to choose a reputable studio with experienced professionals who specialise in oral piercings. During the consultation, the piercer will assess whether you’re a good candidate for a smiley piercing by checking the flexibility and condition of your frenulum. If your frenulum is too thin, too short, or otherwise unsuitable for a piercing, the piercer may recommend an alternative placement or piercing.

Make sure that the piercing studio follows proper hygiene protocols, including the use of sterilized equipment and single-use needles. Always ask to see the studio’s health and safety certifications before proceeding.

2) Piercing preparation

Once you have chosen the right studio and your piercer has confirmed that your frenulum is suitable for a smiley piercing, the next step is preparation. The area around the piercing site will be cleaned thoroughly with an antiseptic solution to minimise the risk of infection.

3) Piercing procedure

For a smiley piercing, the piercer will use a hollow needle to create the hole through the frenulum. The needle is inserted through the thin piece of tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums, and jewelry is immediately inserted into the hole.

The piercing itself only takes a few minutes, and while the process may cause a brief sting, the pain is generally described as mild to moderate. However, pain tolerance varies between individuals, so the experience can differ from person to person.

4) Post-piercing care and jewellery

Once the piercing is completed, the piercer will insert the appropriate jewelry, usually a small curved barbell or a hoop. The piercer will then provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure the piercing heals properly and does not become infected.

Smiley piercing aftercare

Proper aftercare is crucial for the healing of any piercing, and the smiley piercing is no exception. The mouth is full of bacteria, so taking extra care of the piercing site is necessary to avoid infection and ensure proper healing. Here are the key aftercare steps to follow:

1) Clean the piercing regularly: Clean your smiley piercing at least once a day to prevent infection. Use a saline solution or an anti-bacterial mouthwash recommended by your piercer. Avoid using alcohol-based products as they can be too harsh on the piercing and delay the healing process. Gently rinse your mouth with the solution and let it sit for a few seconds before spitting it out.

2) Avoid touching the piercing: To minimise the risk of infection, avoid touching your piercing with dirty hands. If you need to clean or adjust the piercing, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the area. Do not twist or rotate the jewellery, as this can cause irritation and lead to scarring.

3) Avoid oral irritants: For the first few weeks, try to avoid irritating substances such as spicy foods, tobacco, and alcohol, as they can irritate the piercing and slow the healing process. Additionally, refrain from kissing, oral sex, or other activities that involve direct contact with your mouth during the initial healing period.

4) Watch for signs of infection: While infections are uncommon with smiley piercings, it’s important to watch for signs of infection, such as increased swelling, redness, pain, or discharge. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your piercer or a healthcare professional for advice. In some cases, infections may require medical treatment or even jewellery removal.

5) Avoid excessive movement of the piercing: During the healing process, avoid excessive movement or manipulation of the jewellery. This can irritate the piercing and slow down the healing time. If you experience discomfort, gently adjust the jewellery, but always ensure that the piercing is not disturbed too much.

6) Healing time: A smiley piercing generally takes around 6 to 8 weeks to heal fully. However, it may take longer for some individuals, depending on factors such as oral hygiene, lifestyle habits, and the body’s natural healing process. During the healing period, it is important to avoid unnecessary stress on the piercing.

Smiley piercing pain and healing

The advantage of a smiley piercing is that it tends to be less painful than other facial piercings. The pain level for most people is moderate, often described as a sharp pinch when the needle is inserted, but it’s typically brief and fades quickly. Unlike piercings on areas with more nerve endings, such as the nose or lip, the frenulum has fewer nerves, which contributes to the relatively low pain level of the procedure.

The healing process for smiley piercings is relatively quick compared to other types of piercings, but it still requires proper care to avoid complications. Most people experience some swelling and discomfort immediately after the piercing, which usually subsides after a few days. The key to a successful healing process is consistent cleaning, avoiding irritation, and following aftercare instructions carefully.

Potential risks and considerations

While smiley piercings are generally safe and easy to heal, there are some potential risks and considerations to be aware of:

1. Rejection or migration: As with any oral piercing, there is a risk of rejection or migration. This occurs when the body’s immune system identifies the jewelry as a foreign object and gradually pushes it out. If your piercing begins to migrate, it is important to consult a professional piercer immediately.

2. Frenulum damage: Some people have a very thin or short frenulum, making it unsuitable for a smiley piercing. In such cases, attempting to pierce the area could cause damage or tear the frenulum. It’s crucial to consult an experienced piercer who will assess the anatomy of your frenulum before proceeding.

3. Oral health considerations: Because the piercing is located near the gums and teeth, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent any issues. Oral piercings can sometimes contribute to gum recession or damage to teeth if the jewelry is not properly maintained.

4. Jewellery choice: Choose your jewellery carefully. Initially, a small, smooth barbell or hoop is recommended to minimize irritation. Avoid sharp or jagged jewellery that could cause unnecessary damage to the piercing site.

Conclusion

A smiley piercing is a fun, unique, and subtle facial piercing that offers a distinct aesthetic without being overly noticeable. However, like any piercing, it requires careful consideration and proper aftercare. By choosing a professional piercer, following aftercare instructions, and monitoring your healing process, you can ensure that your smiley piercing stays healthy and enhances your look for years to come. Always remember that your smile is the most important feature, and a smiley piercing can enhance it in a stylish, meaningful way.