### Smiley Piercing: What You Need to Know A smiley piercing, also known as a lip frenulum piercing, involves inserting jewelry into the thin flap of skin connecting your lip to your gum. This piercing is only visible when you smile, hence the name. #### Who Should Avoid It? While anyone can get a smiley piercing, it's best to avoid it if you have braces, dental sealants, a small frenulum, gum disease, tooth infection, or other oral conditions. #### Jewelry Options Jewelry for smiley piercings can vary, but common choices include small rings or barbells. The material should be safe for oral use, such as surgical steel or titanium. #### The Piercing Process Getting a smiley piercing involves a quick needle prick, which can be painful due to the delicate nature of the frenulum. The pain is usually brief, and deep breaths can help manage it. #### Healing and Aftercare A smiley piercing typically heals within 4 to 12 weeks if there are no complications. Proper aftercare is crucial: - Clean the area regularly with a saline solution. - Avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands. - Refrain from smoking or consuming alcohol during the healing period. Once healed, you can change the jewelry every 3 months. Always disinfect your hands and mouth before touching the piercing. #### Risks The main health risks include infection, gum recession, and tooth damage. To minimize these risks, choose a professional piercer with good credentials and follow a diligent aftercare routine. Seek medical help if you notice any signs of infection or other issues. If you decide to remove the piercing, wait until it’s fully healed and continue cleaning the area until the hole closes completely.