Facial piercings, which is a process of body modification, has become popular as it is considered to be stylish. Cheek piercings are a kind of facial piercings which are generally done on both sides of the cheeks, usually at the place where dimples appear. Most people opt for cheek piercing to simulate the look of dimples. Just like any other kind of facial piercings, even these piercings involves certain amount of pain. Hence, people who want to get their cheeks pierced, ought to know the details about this type of piercing to prevent the occurrence of infection or any other complications. These piercings are done by penetrating a needle through the facial tissue into the oral cavity. First, the area of cheek to be pierced, is cleaned with an antibacterial solution and the position of the piercing is marked. A clamp is then placed over the cheek and the piercing is done with a 16-18 mm gauge. Usually a labret stud is worn as jewelry for cheek piercings. However, there are many people who prefer to wear barbells as well. As the area where the piercing is done swells up after a few days, the cheek piercing jewelry should not be too short. The bigger-sized jewelry will give sufficient space to the swelling and allow the piercing to heal well. However, once the area is completely healed, it is important to change the jewelry and put in a smaller one. This is because the bigger jewelry is likely to rub against the teeth and gums which can lead to damage. Moreover, one should make sure that the balls of the jewelry are tightened as there have been cases where people have swallowed the balls accidentally. As with any other kind of piercing, aftercare is really important in order to prevent infections. The healing time can be different for different people, however, the average time required would be between 8 - 14 weeks.

• After piercing avoid having hot or spicy food. This can irritate the piercings and cause pain, swelling and inflammation.
• Avoid smoking as this will also cause piercing complications.
• Women should be careful while applying makeup on skin after getting cheek piercings done.
• Avoid tugging or pulling at the piercings as this might lead to infections.
• Many people find that their piercings do not suit them and the body pushes it in or out. In such a case, it is best to take off the jewelry and visit the piercer again.
• During the healing time, it is important to clean the piercing regularly with saline solution. Take 6 ounces of water in a bowl and mix it with a teaspoon of sea salt. Soak a cotton ball or Q-tip in this solution and clean the piercing twice, everyday.
• It is also necessary to clean the piercing when you are in the shower. Use a mild antibacterial soap to clean the piercing. Do not forget to thoroughly wash away the soap with water as dried soap can cause irritation.

One of the major disadvantage of getting cheek piercings is that once a person decides to get them removed, it will leave visible scars. Although all piercings leaves scars, once the cheek piercings are removed, there are visible hole marks at the site of the piercings. There are no effective methods or products that promises to get rid of the scars caused by piercings permanently. Though the scars may disappear with time, it will actually take a long time and also, they may not fade completely. Therefore, if you want to get a cheek piercing done, you must consider this thing very carefully. If you are not sure that you would want to keep this piercing for a long time, it will be a good idea to rethink about it. It is extremely crucial to choose a reputable and professional piercer to get your piercing done, otherwise there are chances of migration and infection. So, the only way of flaunting those studded dimples for a long time is to take the necessary precautions before, during and after the piercings are done.