Formation of mucogingival defects associated with intraoral and perioral piercing: case reports.

BACKGROUND The authors provide clinical findings in five patients wearing oral jewelry to illustrate the risks of experiencing periodontal injury associated with body piercing involving intraoral and perioral sites. They also present a literature review of other adverse dental and medical consequences attributed to oral piercing. CASE DESCRIPTIONS Five young adult patients with tongue and lip piercing sought dental care. Each patient exhibited some degree of gingival recession and mucogingival defects in proximity of their oral jewelry. Three of these patients had probing depths ranging from 5 to 8 millimeters in the affected areas. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Intraoral and perioral jewelry may be associated with the development of significant mucogingival deformities. Because severe attachment loss can develop even when gingival recession is minimal, it is critical that patients with oral piercing routinely undergo comprehensive periodontal assessment. The authors urge clinicians to educate patients about the potential risks regarding the practice of oral piercing.