Do you like snake bites? Don't worry, we're not referring to anything venomous, but rather the paired snake bite piercings on your lips. In this guide, we’ll answer questions like “Will a snake bite piercing damage my teeth or gums?” and cover everything else you need to know about this unique piercing.
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Snake bite is a name for a particular type of labret piercing. This type of piercing is a pair of piercings placed on either side of the lower lip, creating a cool, snake fang-like appearance.
Before you get snake bites, a professional piercer will determine the right gauge and jewelry type based on your anatomy. Your piercer will mark both sides of your bottom lip to determine placement. It's crucial to ensure symmetrical placement on both sides, so if something seems off during marking, speak up with your piercer!
Let your piercer know if you plan to wear rings, as this can affect the placement of your piercings.
If getting both piercings at once feels overwhelming, whether due to cost or discomfort, you can opt to have them done one at a time.
A labret stud is the most common choice for initial jewelry. Your initial jewelry will need to be longer to accommodate for swelling, but once the swelling goes down you can have your piercer downsize the jewelry.
Do snake bite piercings hurt? While all piercings hurt to some extent, lip piercings tend to be lower on the scale. That said, having to get pierced twice around the same piercing site can be more uncomfortable than your average single lip piercing. While you can choose to get one snake bite piercing at a time, keep in mind that this means experiencing the pain and healing process twice.
Yes, snake bite piercings can damage your teeth and gums over time. This usually depends on your jewelry and habits.
Since these piercings sit close to your teeth and gums, the jewelry can sometimes rub against them. Over time, this repeated contact can wear down your enamel or cause gum recession, which is when the gums slowly pull away from the teeth. Metal jewelry, especially pieces with large beads, ends, or rings that rub against the inside of your mouth, can increase this risk.
Certain factors can make dental issues more likely. For example, if the piercings are placed too close to your teeth or gums, there’s a higher chance of constant contact. Wearing barbells or jewelry with large beads can also increase friction, especially if the jewelry presses against your mouth. This is why piercers often suggest certain jewelry styles for lower lip piercings.
Habits like playing with or clicking the jewelry against your teeth, or letting it press against your mouth while you sleep, can add to wear over time. Accidentally biting down on the jewelry can also chip teeth.
You can lower the risk by choosing an experienced piercer who ensures proper placement to keep jewelry away from your teeth and gums. If you already have snake bites, a professional piercer can examine your jewelry and suggest changes, like switching from a ring to a flat-back or using softer materials like Bioplast.
Being mindful of your habits can help reduce the risk of damage. Try to avoid playing with your jewelry or biting down on it, and pay attention to how it sits in your mouth. Make sure to keep up with good oral hygiene and watch for signs of gum or enamel damage. If you notice irritation, gum changes, or sensitivity, it’s best to check in with your piercer or a dental professional.
As with all piercings, the average price for a snake bites piercing varies depending on the piercing studio, location and jewelry chosen. Snake bites will cost a little more than your average piercing, since it's two-in-one. A snake bite piercing price is around $60-$120, not including the price of the jewelry. Opt for high quality jewelry like implant grade titanium for a smoother healing period.
Lip piercings tend to heal faster than others, usually taking around six to eight weeks. Do not change your jewelry until your piercings have fully healed and follow proper aftercare. If you need to downsize your initial jewelry before then, your piercer can help.
After the piercing, expect some swelling, which can make eating and talking a bit challenging at first. Stick to soft foods initially and avoid spicy, acidic, hot, and salty foods. Follow your piercer's aftercare instructions diligently – no touching the piercing with unwashed hands!
Other aftercare tips to keep in mind:
If you need surgery, an MRI, or dental work, check out our guide to piercing retainers for medical procedures.
During the first few days, your lip will probably be swollen and sensitive. This can make brushing your teeth feel a little awkward, especially since your piercer likely used longer jewelry to allow room for swelling.
Here are a few tips to make brushing easier:
It might feel strange brushing around your jewelry at first, but that's normal! As the swelling goes down, brushing should become easier.
Once fully healed, you're free to explore the many types of snake bite piercing jewelry available! You can wear labrets and simply change their ends. Lip rings are an extremely popular type of jewelry. You can also explore clicker rings, captive bead rings, circular barbells, or twists!
Talk to your piercer to learn what gauge, diameter, or length you’ll need for your jewelry, or check out our body jewelry measurement guide if you’re not sure what you need.
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Anyone prone to keloids or piercing rejections should reconsider getting a snake bite piercing.
Individuals with a history of tooth or gum problems, or those currently wearing braces, should avoid getting this piercing. Remember, your dental health comes first.
As with any facial piercings, consider your place of work. These can be hard to hide, and cannot be removed during the healing process, so take into account your workplace's policies regarding facial piercings.
Snake bites are a fun way to express yourself. Check out bodyartforms.com for a variety of jewelry designs once your piercing has fully healed. We hope this guide was helpful. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. And don't forget to follow us on all our socials @Bodyartforms!
