Tongue Piercing Material Affects Bacterial Growth

Due to a recent study we got to know that stainless steel tongue studs may lead to more bacteria growth than studs made of plastic.

The study was held by the researchers from Innsbruck Medical University, involving 85 people who already had a tongue piercing. Each of those who were undergoing the experiment was given a new tongue stud, which was made from one of 4 different materials: steel, titanium and 2 various types of plastic. In 2 weeks time, the researchers looked at the bacteria around the piercings.

The study showed 80 different species of bacteria, considering the fact that 67 of them were found at higher levels near the piercings made of stainless steel, than around other three types. A few of the bacteria is able to cause periodontal disease. The studies showed that the steel and titanium piercings are more dangerous and harmful, as more Staphlyococcus bacteria were found by the researchers around these two types of studs.

The low level of bacteria was found on plastic and titanium studs, which lead to a logical conclusion that “existing tongue piercings don't pose an increased risk for oral infection". So, taking into consideration a fact that tongue piercings can interfere with chewing, swallowing and talking, it may cause some pain and swelling.