In this case, a tongue piercing retainer is a clear, plastic barbell-shaped ring that goes around the tongue ring to hide the piercing.

These tools can come in handy for tongue ring wearers who have to follow a dress code at work or school. One of the most common reasons people wear them are because they have a piercing that is not allowed at their job. For example, it might not be appropriate to wear noticeable tongue rings to a job interview at a bank.

Retainers are a unique and fun way to hide a piercing so those who sport the accessories don’t have to feel like they aren’t spunky when they wear the retainers. You can still keep your individuality by wearing the retainers because you are separating yourself from the crowd just by wearing something different in your mouth than anyone else!

If you search around for tongue piercing retainers, you will find that most of them come in a clear color. It is not impossible to find them in a different color but the most common color for the retainers is clear.  Sometimes they’re just more comfortable than traditional metal styles.

Nearly all people with tongue rings eventually reach a point when they would prefer to conceal the piercing. Although the hole will close eventually and the tongue will return to (almost) normal, the transition period can be irritating so some choose to avoid it by using a retainer. If you can wear a tongue ring and get away with it, why wouldn’t you? The best way to hide them is by getting a retainer.

When you have a cold, you will likely blow your nose more often which could result in soreness and tenderness on the entire nose, not just around the piercing.  If it is bothersome, consider taking out the metal ring and replacing it temporarily with a flexible retainer stud. It is also recommended that you remove and clean your nose ring during and after a cold to prevent bacteria and viral buildup.
2.  What is the healing time for my new piercing?
Healing times vary greatly from piercing to piercing.  Below are simply approximations and you should ask your piercer for specific details.
Tongue: 4 to 6 weeks
Ear Lobes:  6 to 8 weeks
Ear Cartilage:  4 to 14 months
Eyebrow: 6 to 8 weeks
Lip: 3 to 4 months
Nose: 3 to 6 months
Navel: 6 to 12 months

3.  If I take my ring out, will my piercing close right away?
That depends.  Some piercings take longer to close than others. For example, a tongue ring hole may close in a matter of hours but your ear lobes could stay open for years.  If you are concerned that your hole will close, invest in a piercing retainer.  These are often clear, plastic, rings used to hold open the hole, but draw less attention than regular jewelry.

4.  Should I “spin” or “twist” my piercing several times a day?
This is a very debated question with two valuable points of view.  The “yes” group says that this is important because it can cut down on scabbing and will loosen any “crust” or “pus” that forms around the hole.  The “no” group says that this will tear any of the new tissue that forms or it will drag bacteria into the hole, causing infection.  Many agree that if you feel this is necessary, it’s best to twist your piercing after a hot shower because the skin will be looser and softer and make the spinning process easier, less painful and safer.

5.  Should I use alcohol to clean my piercing?  What about Neosporin?
No! Never ever use alcohol or Neosporin to clean you piercing.  Alcohol will dry out the skin and cause it to crack and peel.  Neosporin will trap dirt and bacteria and easily cause infection. The only way you should clean your piercing is with warm water and antibacterial soap or seasalt.  Consult your piercer for more details.

6.  There are so many names for the different piercings; what’s what?
labret: a piercing centered below the lip and above the chin.
tragus: a piercing that goes through the small tab of tissue that is connected to the side of the face and slightly blocks part of the ear canal.
daith: a piercing through the inner ear cartilage.
helix: a piercing through the outer ear cartilage ridge.
conch: a piercing through the main shell of the ear.
rook: a piercing through the cartilage fold above the conch.
monroe: a top lip piercing to the left or right of the nose.