There is a history of ritual tongue piercing in both Aztec and Maya cultures, with illustrations of priests piercing their tongue and then either drawing blood from it or passing rough cords, designed to inflict pain, through the hole. There is no evidence of permanent or long term tongue piercing in Aztec culture, however, despite the practice of many other permanent body modifications, it was done to honor the gods. Piercing the tongue has a long history in religious and performance practices as well. The Aztecs practiced this as well as other perforations as a part of offerings to their deities. Islamic Fakirs and Sufis from the Middle East, and Asian Spirit Mediums of the Far East practiced tongue piercing as an offering and proof of trance state.

The modern origin of the professional tongue piercing and its popularity As well as the design of the barbell used is associated with Gauntlet – “Americas first professional piercing studio“.  Jim ward founder of Gauntlet and body piercing pioneer is responsible for the design of the internally threaded barbell.Which are used in all tongue piercings. Master piercer elaine angel is also associated with the promotion and popularity of this piercing In the 1990′s. It has grown to be one of the most common piercings today. Both men and women seek to have this piercing performed. It is said to be used to aid oral sex. Due to the nature of this piercing I will not perform this piercing on anyone under 18.

The tongue piercing is said to be one of the least initially painful piercings. When performed by a skilled professional the procedure will only last a few seconds. The techniques used vary from piercer to piercer. Either forceps or a freehand method are used.The jewelry used is either 14-12 gauge Internally threaded barbell. Never use externally threaded jewelry. Typically the length of the initial barbell inserted should be no less than 3/4 of a inch,But 7/8 of a inch may be required depending on the thickness of the tissue as the tongue can swell up to double is size.

Using jewelry to short can result in quite a few problems including the over swelling of the piercing causing the jewelry to become lodged under the skin.And usually results in the loss of the piercing. After the healing period has passed usually 4 to 6 weeks the jewelry should be downsized to rest snug against the tongue. the tops of the barbell can also be changed. Acrylic ends are recommended to avoid the chipping of teeth. The length of the tongue as well as the size of the frenulum. “The webbing under the tongue” Also play a role in deciding if you are a candidate. The tongue must pass at least 1/2 past the teeth in order to be a candidate in having your tongue pierced. If the frenulum restricts the tongue from passing out 1/2 you are not a candidate for a safe tongue piercing.You may have to seek out a procedure called a Tongue Frenectomy.”The removal of the frenulum” A Tongue Frenectomy is the freeing of the tongue by the cutting of the connective tissue underneath the tongue so that the tongue appears longer (and as far as anything outside of your mouth is concerned, it is longer!). It is also done to get the tongue web out of the way so that a tongue piercing may be done (this is only required for people with overly prominent tongue webs and is not normally required).The procedure itself can damage glands, blood vessels, and muscular tissue in the area. Short of superficial cuts this procedure really should be left to trained medical professionals.If you feel you may need this procedure consult your oral surgeon.

When Caring for a new tongue piercing you must have patience as it swells for the first 3 to 5 days or longer. A non alcohol based antimicrobial mouthwash diluted 50/50 with distilled water should be used after every meal. A sea salt rinse is also recommended for every other rinse. 1/4 teaspoon non iodized sea salt “never use table salt” per 8oz of distilled water. A fresh mix per day used is recommended.The use of ibuprofen “Advil” is recommended as with ice water to help reduce swelling. Follow the directions on the bottle. Playing with the piercing, Drinking alcohol,All oral contact, spicy foods,citrus juices,dairy products,sharing eating utensils,Should be avoided. Fruits with small seeds such as raspberry’s and sesame seeds or any small food that can become lodged into the piercing Should also be avoided. For complete aftercare instructions feel free to stop into any blue boutique!.

As with all piercings there is a risk of developing a secondary infection. Oral piercings are a higher risk due to the location inside the mouth. A person in good health who is pierced with aseptic technique by a skilled professional and who follows all directions those risks are very low. The tongue heals it’s self at a very high rate due to the blood supply in the mouth. A weekly checking of the tightness of the jewelry is recommended to ensure it stays in place. and to avoid swallowing the jewelry.

The Piercers at Blue Boutique hope this helps you have a better understanding of the history of the tongue piercing and it’s roots in modern body piercing.We only use the highest quality jewelry and all of our piercers are highly experienced and will ensure you a safe, clean, comfortable experience.