Labret piercings are a popular facial piercing choice, known for their bold yet versatile look. But one common concern keeps coming up: do labret piercings damage your teeth or gums?
The honest answer is they can—but they don’t always. Dental impact depends heavily on placement, jewelry type, fit, and personal habits. In this guide, we break down the real risks, common myths, and how to reduce potential damage.
What Is a Labret Piercing?
A labret piercing is typically placed below the lower lip, with jewelry that passes through the lip and rests inside the mouth. Because part of the jewelry sits near the teeth and gums, oral health is an important consideration.
Common labret styles include:
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Standard labret
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Side labret
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Vertical labret (does not rest inside the mouth)
Can Labret Piercings Damage Teeth or Gums?
Yes, They Can—But It’s Not Automatic
A labret piercing does not instantly ruin teeth. Problems usually develop due to repeated contact over time, not simply from having the piercing.
Many people wear labret piercings long-term without serious dental issues when the piercing is done and maintained correctly.
Potential Dental Risks of Labret Piercings
Tooth Enamel Wear
Metal jewelry rubbing against teeth can gradually wear down enamel, leading to sensitivity or increased cavity risk.
Gum Recession
Constant pressure on the gums—especially behind the lower front teeth—can cause gums to recede. Gum recession is permanent, which is why prevention matters.
Tooth Chipping or Cracks
Accidentally biting the jewelry or playing with it can cause chips, especially if the jewelry is hard or oversized.
What Increases the Risk of Dental Damage?
Several factors raise the likelihood of problems:
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Jewelry that is too long
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Large or heavy ends inside the mouth
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Poor initial placement
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Skipping downsizing after swelling goes down
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Chewing, clicking, or playing with the jewelry
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Infrequent dental checkups
How to Reduce Dental Risks with a Labret Piercing
Choose the Right Jewelry
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Flat-back labret studs (instead of rings)
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Small, smooth inner discs
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Proper post length, downsized after healing
Flat backs distribute pressure more evenly and reduce rubbing.
Select Safe Materials
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Implant-grade titanium
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Solid 14k–18k gold (nickel-free)
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Piercer-approved biocompatible materials for healed piercings
Low-quality metals increase irritation and friction.
Get Professional Placement
An experienced piercer will:
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Position the piercing to minimize tooth contact
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Consider your bite and lip movement
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Recommend correct jewelry sizing
Good placement is one of the biggest protective factors.
Are Some Labret Styles Safer for Teeth?
Yes. Vertical labret piercings are generally considered lower risk because the jewelry does not rest inside the mouth.
Well-fitted standard labrets with flat backs can also be worn safely with proper care.
Signs Your Labret Piercing May Be Affecting Your Teeth
Watch for:
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Gum soreness or thinning
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Tooth sensitivity near the piercing
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Visible wear marks on teeth
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Jewelry frequently hitting teeth at rest
If you notice any of these, consult both your piercer and dentist.
Labret Piercing Myths vs Facts
Myth: Labret piercings always ruin teeth
Fact: Many people have no issues with proper placement and jewelry
Myth: Plastic jewelry eliminates all risk
Fact: Fit and habits matter more than material alone
Myth: Once healed, dental risks disappear
Fact: Long-term contact can still cause wear if jewelry hits teeth
Labret piercings don’t automatically damage your teeth, but they do require more thought than piercings that don’t interact with the mouth. Choosing the right piercer, jewelry, and habits makes a significant difference.
If dental health is a major concern, discuss alternative styles or placement options before committing.
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