MARTINS, Aline Honório et al. Body piercing (oral and perioral) and associated health complications: perceptions of a group of adornment wearers. Odontol. Clín.-Cient. (Online) []. 2013, 12, 4, pp. 287-291. ISSN 1677-3888.

Objective: To identify complications arising from the use of body piercing (oral and perioral) in a population of young adults. Methodology: Descriptive research, of the cross-sectional type, through the collection of primary data. The target population consisted of adults from three cities in the state of Santa Catarina (SC), and the inclusion criteria were: age 18 or over, and user or former user of a body piercing. The sample was of the accidental, non-probabilistic type. The research subjects were interviewed in public places. Results: 103 completed questionnaires were returned. The sample was comprised of 50.5% male subjects, and 49.5% females, with ages ranging from 18 to 32 years. The majority (70%) stated that they had not noticed any kind of change after having their body piercing done. Of those who identified some type of change (n=32), the majority were part of the former user group. The main changes mentioned were: changes in speech, chewing and swallowing; damaged teeth; pain and swelling; and inflammation. Conclusion: Piercing is a form of intraoral injury, therefore it is necessary to ensure that information on care in relation to the use of this adornment is widespread, to minimize possible complications.

: Knowledge; Body Piercing; Health Promotion..