What Can I Eat After Getting A Tongue Piercing?

“What can I eat after getting a tongue piercing?” This is a critical question for anyone who has just undergone this unique form of body modification. A tongue piercing requires specific aftercare, especially when it comes to diet, to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. Understanding what foods are safe and which ones to avoid is key in the days and weeks following your piercing.

Immediately After Getting A Tongue Piercing:

In the first few hours after getting your tongue pierced, it’s normal to experience swelling and some discomfort. During this period after getting a tongue piercing, it’s advisable to avoid eating until the anesthesia, if used, wears off to prevent biting your tongue accidentally.

Safe Foods For Initial Days After A Tongue Piercing:

• Firstly, Cold Foods And Beverages: Cold items can help soothe swelling of the tongue. Think of ice cream, yogurt, and cold smoothies (without a straw, as sucking motions can cause issues).
• Secondly, Soft Foods: Soft, easy-to-swallow foods after a tongue piercing are ideal. Applesauce, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, and well-cooked pasta are good choices.
• Thirdly, Lukewarm Soups: Soups are nutritious and gentle on a healing tongue piercing, but make sure they’re not too hot.
• Finally, Meal Replacement Shakes: These can be a good source of nutrition when you find it hard to eat solid foods after getting a tongue piercing.

Foods To Avoid After A Tongue Piercing:

• Firstly, Spicy And Acidic Foods: These may irritate the tongue piercing. Avoid citrus fruits, spicy sauces, and seasoned foods.
• Secondly, Crunchy Or Hard Foods: Chips, raw vegetables, and hard fruits can cause pain and damage to the tongue piercing.
• Thirdly, Alcoholic Beverages: Alcohol can increase swelling and delay healing.
• Finally, Hot Beverages And Foods: Heat can exacerbate swelling and discomfort.

Eating Tips:

• Firstly, Chew Slowly And Carefully After A Tongue Piercing: Be mindful while eating to avoid biting the jewelry.
• Secondly, Eat Small Bites: Take small bites to make chewing easier and reduce the risk of irritating the piercing.
• Finally, Good Oral Hygiene: Rinse your mouth with a saline solution or alcohol-free mouthwash after eating to keep the piercing clean.

Long-Term Dietary Considerations:

After the initial healing phase, which typically lasts a few weeks, you can gradually reintroduce other foods into your diet. However, continue to be cautious with very spicy, crunchy, or hard foods until your tongue has completely healed.

Final Thoughts 

Now that we know what to eat after getting a tongue piercing, prioritizing the right types of food is essential for a smooth healing process. Stick to cold, soft, and non-irritating foods in the beginning and slowly reintroduce other foods as your piercing heals. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene after meals is just as crucial as the food choices you make. With proper care and diet, your tongue piercing will heal nicely, allowing you to enjoy a wider range of foods once again.

Need to find a piercer? Check out the Association of Professional Piercers.