When can I change my tongue ring?

After a tongue piercing, an individual should wait until the tongue has completely healed before changing the initial ring. Depending on the person, it can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months for a new tongue piercing to completely heal.

The tongue will swell slightly after being pierced. To care for the tongue so that it heals properly, an individual should rinse the mouth at least twice a day with a mixture of 50 percent non-alcoholic mouthwash and 50 percent water. Alcohol should be avoided and it's important to follow any care instructions given with the piercing in order to avoid infection.