Using an eyebrow piercing barbell for a snake eyes piercing (a horizontal tongue piercing near the tip) is not recommended. Here’s a detailed explanation to help you understand why it’s not suitable, along with alternative options.

Can You Use Eyebrow Piercing Jewelry for Snake Eyes Piercing?

Technically, you can insert an eyebrow barbell into a snake eyes piercing because both are barbells, but doing so is not a good idea. Eyebrow jewelry is not designed for use in the tongue, and using it inappropriately can cause discomfort, complications, and health risks.

Why Eyebrow Jewelry is Unsuitable for Snake Eyes Piercings

  1. Material Differences:
    • Eyebrow barbells are often made from materials that may not be safe for prolonged use in the mouth.
    • Snake eyes jewelry must be made from biocompatible materials like surgical steel, titanium, or PTFE (a flexible, non-metal material) to avoid irritation and infection.
  2. Size and Shape Issues:
    • Eyebrow jewelry is usually smaller and shorter than tongue-specific barbells. This can cause the jewelry to press against the tongue tissue, leading to discomfort, swelling, or embedding.
    • Tongue barbells are typically longer to accommodate swelling and the movement of the tongue.
  3. Health Risks:
    • Using improper jewelry increases the risk of infections due to material corrosion or the inability to clean it thoroughly.
    • Snake eyes piercings experience a lot of movement from speaking and eating, requiring jewelry designed to withstand these stresses without causing irritation or damage.
  4. Oral Safety:
    • Jewelry designed for other areas, like the eyebrow, may have sharp edges or inappropriate threading that can damage your teeth and gums when used in the mouth.

What Jewelry Should You Use for Snake Eyes Piercing?

For a snake eyes piercing, always use jewelry designed specifically for tongue piercings. Here’s what to look for:

  1. Material:
    • Surgical steel: Durable and safe for oral use.
    • Titanium: Lightweight, hypoallergenic, and corrosion-resistant.
    • PTFE or Bioflex: Flexible and less likely to irritate the tongue.
  2. Size:
    • The standard size for snake eyes barbells is 14-gauge (1.6mm) with a length that varies based on your anatomy, usually around 16mm.
    • Your piercer will recommend the appropriate size based on swelling and comfort.
  3. Shape:
    • A straight or slightly curved barbell with smooth, round ends is ideal for minimizing irritation and protecting your teeth and gums.

What Happens If You Use the Wrong Jewelry?

Using improper jewelry, like an eyebrow barbell, can lead to several complications, including:

  • Swelling and Irritation: Tight-fitting or small jewelry can press into the tissue and cause prolonged discomfort.
  • Infections: Non-biocompatible materials may corrode or react with saliva, increasing the risk of infection.
  • Dental Damage: Jewelry not designed for the mouth can chip teeth, damage gums, or cause oral injuries.

Tips for Choosing the Right Jewelry for Snake Eyes Piercing

  1. Consult Your Piercer: Always ask your piercer for advice on the best jewelry options for your piercing.
  2. Buy from Reputable Sellers: Purchase jewelry from trusted piercing shops or online stores specializing in body jewelry.
  3. Monitor Fit and Comfort: If the jewelry feels too tight, too loose, or uncomfortable, replace it with a better-fitting option.