Sep 24 : Long-term lower lip piercings can lead to tooth loss, according to a German dental organisation.

If the back of the piercing pushes against the gums, it can wear them down and lead to bone decay, says proDente, a Cologne-based organisation of dentists, dental technicians and industrial and dental suppliers.

Eight millimetre deep pockets have been found in gums after wearing the jewellery for just a few months. Once the gums are worn down, bones dissipate and nothing remains to hold the teeth in place.