Tongue Piercing
Heals quickly but swells dramatically for the first few days. Ice water and soft food are essential.
Healing Time
4–6 weeks
Cleaning
Twice daily
Downsize
Week 2
Jewellery
Implant-grade titanium
Step by step
Healing timeline
Day 1
- Swelling peaks over the first 2–3 days
- Sip iced water constantly; suck on ice if it helps
- Eat soft, cool food — smoothies, yoghurt, ice cream
Week 1
- Rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash after every meal, drink or smoke
- No kissing, oral contact, sharing drinks or cutlery
- No smoking, vaping or alcohol
Week 2
- Come in for the downsize now — the long bar will start hitting teeth as swelling drops
- Ease back to normal food as it feels comfortable
After healing
- Fully healed at 4–6 weeks
- Keep the shorter bar in long-term to protect teeth and gums
Reassurance
Normal during healing
Everyday sensations you can expect during healing.
Watch out for
When to contact us
Know the difference between typical irritation and something that needs attention.
Common issues
- Bar clicking on teeth once swelling drops
- Long bar catching in the mouth
- Alcohol and smoking slowing healing
Contact the studio
- Bump that isn't settling with a clean routine
- Persistent redness or tenderness beyond week 2–3
- Jewellery feeling tight against the skin
- Anything you're unsure about — send us a photo
Contact us urgently
If you notice any of these, contact us straight away. We'll advise whether to come in for a check-up or seek urgent medical care.
- Spreading redness or a red streak away from the piercing
- Hot skin with throbbing pain that worsens by the day
- Thick yellow or green discharge with a foul smell
- Fever, chills or feeling generally unwell
Helpful tips
Extra advice for your tongue piercing
Tongue tips
- Sip iced water constantly for the first few days
- Rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash after every meal
- No smoking, vaping, alcohol or kissing for two weeks
- Book a downsize once swelling reduces
- Never leave the long healing bar in long-term
FAQs
Healing Checker
Answer a few quick questions tailored to the treatment you're viewing. We'll help you understand whether your healing appears normal and what you should do next.
Takes less than 60 seconds
Still need help?
Send us a clear photo and one of our experienced team members will review it and advise on the next steps. If appropriate, we'll recommend a studio check-up or seeking medical advice.
Studio Recommended · Aftercare
NeilMed Piercing Aftercare Spray
Professional aftercare recommended by our piercers. Sterile saline fine mist that keeps new piercings clean without burning or stinging.
- Sterile saline
- Drug free
- Any-angle mist
- 177ml bottle
Free UK delivery over £40