Piercing guide › Face piercings › Cheek
The cheek piercing goes through the whole cheek into the mouth, usually where a dimple forms when you smile. It is often done on both sides.
Beforehand I check the spot from the outside and the inside. The duct of the parotid gland runs through the cheek. I place the point so that it keeps its distance from it.
As initial jewellery I use a long bar with a flat disc on the inside, made of Bioplast or titanium to ASTM F136. Once the swelling has gone down, I shorten it.
If you tend to bite your cheek a lot or wear braces, you should skip it. The piercing doesn't reliably create a dimple.
Tissue in the mouth heals quickly because it has a good blood supply. In return it swells noticeably in the first few days. Rinse after eating with clear water or an alcohol-free mouthwash. Smoking and alcohol slow down healing.
How to care for the piercing in each phase is explained in detail on the Care and aftercare page. The short version for the mouth: rinse after eating, don't play with the jewellery, have the initial bar shortened in time.
When to get help immediately
Pain and healing time are guide values, averaged from information given by piercing and tattoo studios. Where the figures come from. Everyone feels and heals differently.
Want a cheek piercing or have a question about it?
Message on WhatsApp
