If you have ever gotten an ear lobe piercing, then cheek piercings should feel quite similar - your experience with one may provide some context and insight into what to expect with the other.
The piercing process only lasts a short period of time, so there's no need to worry about having to endure a great deal of pain for a longer duration. Plus, most who have gotten their cheeks pierced report that the pain is manageable and fades quickly in comparison to some other forms of body modification.
In short, it's nothing unbearable!
Many people assume that these piercings have some sort of spiritual connection or personal meaning, but not everyone understands why. When viewed from an anthropology standpoint, cheek piercings can be a way to assert one's identity and honour ancestral traditions.
By carrying on traditional practices generations later, people are able to preserve their cultural heritage as well as express themselves. Thus, by wearing cheek piercings, individuals are given a chance to keep up with their heritage while still establishing their own personal style.
Therefore, cheek piercings represent an interesting combination of identity expression and familial tradition among modern-day societies.
Studies show that facial piercings can be damaging to oral health and cause tooth impairment, depending on the placement of the piercing and its length. Orthodontists recommend that those who choose to get cheek piercings should make sure they have a short barbell or stud placed on the inside of the cheek with an upward angle to reduce potential negative effects.
Taking additional precautions like regularly flossing, brushing twice daily, and visiting your dentist frequently can help reduce the risk of potential dental damage and ensure you keep your pearly whites sparkling for years to come.
