The jewelry keeps the piercing hole from closing up and allows the infection to drain.
Repeat this after each meal or about 3 to 4 times per day until your infection has healed. [5] X Research source You can also soak your lip in the solution for a few minutes to clean the outside of your lip as well. [6] X Research source You can also use an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash instead.
While eating yogurt can help your infection heal quicker, it likely won’t be able to treat the infection on its own.
Use a warm saline solution instead of plain water to make this even more effective. The warm compress promotes drainage, which will help your body get rid of the infection quicker. If the abscess is persistent, large, or very painful, you may need to have it surgically drained by a doctor.
You should also seek medical attention if you’re drooling or if you have difficulty swallowing or speaking. Any of these symptoms likely indicate that your infection is worsening or that you’re having an allergic reaction to the piercing. [9] X Research source If you’re using home remedies and your symptoms are persistent but mild, see your doctor to assess why your infection isn’t improving.
Many pain relievers, including Ibuprofen, also help reduce swelling and inflammation. Always take pain relievers exactly as prescribed by your doctor or as instructed by your pharmacist.
Your doctor may give you a prescription for a topical antibiotic cream or recommend an over-the-counter option, such as Bactroban. Don’t apply topical medications to infected areas inside your mouth unless instructed to by your doctor. Keflex, Bactrim, and Doxycycline are a few strong oral antibiotics that your doctor may prescribe. The dosage and instructions for using or taking antibiotics vary depending on your specific infection symptoms and the type of antibiotic. Always use antibiotics as instructed by your doctor.
Because the dosage and use instructions vary from one medication to another, always follow your doctor’s instructions when taking an antihistamine.
The procedure and recovery time vary depending on the severity of your infection. In many cases, however, this procedure is quick, painless, and heals in about a week.
You may want to avoid using an electric toothbrush until any tenderness or infection around the piercing has cleared up.
There are several alcohol-free antiseptic types of mouthwash on the market that are widely available online and at drug stores. If you aren’t sure what to use, ask your dentist for a recommendation.
Unscented soaps containing benzalkonium chloride, for example, are generally effective at cleaning the area around your piercing. [19] X Research source If the skin around your piercing is sensitive, try diluting the soap by mixing it with an equal part of water.
Drinking hot beverages may also irritate your mouth and lips. If this is the case, reduce your intake of these as well until the piercing heals. Alcohol and tobacco use can also slow down the healing process. [21] X Research source
In addition, try to avoid any other type of contact, such as kissing, for about 6 weeks after getting a new lip piercing to allow it time to heal properly. [23] X Research source
