What Is a Labret Piercing? Lip Placement, Healing and Jewellery Explained

A labret piercing is positioned centrally just below the lower lip and above the chin. The jewellery passes through the skin beneath the lip and rests inside the mouth, typically fitted with a flat-backed stud.

The central placement gives it a symmetrical, adaptable look that works across a range of styles. Because part of the jewellery sits inside the mouth, correct positioning, appropriate sizing and consistent aftercare are essential for long-term comfort.

Before committing, there are a few practical considerations worth understanding.

Where exactly is a labret piercing placed?

A traditional labret piercing sits directly below the lower lip, centred along the midline. The jewellery enters through the external skin and exits inside the mouth, where a flat disc rests against the inner lip.

Placement should avoid the gum line and allow the backing to sit flush against soft tissue without embedding. A trained piercer will assess:

• Lip thickness

• Tooth and gum exposure when speaking

• Natural lip curvature

• Bite alignment

When positioned correctly, the backing should not press constantly against the gum tissue. Jewellery length is selected carefully to allow for swelling without creating excessive internal contact.

If you are comparing styles, our guide to different types of lip piercings explains how a labret differs from vertical and side lip placements.

What happens during a labret piercing appointment?

A labret piercing must always be performed with a sterile, single-use hollow needle. Piercing guns are not appropriate for lip tissue.

The process typically follows these steps.

Step 1: Consultation

Your piercer evaluates your anatomy and selects jewellery length to accommodate initial swelling.

Step 2: Cleaning and marking

The outside of the lip and the inner oral tissue are disinfected. Placement is marked externally for confirmation.

Step 3: The piercing

The needle passes from outside to inside. Jewellery is inserted immediately. Because the tissue is soft rather than cartilage, the sensation is usually sharp but brief.

Step 4: Aftercare guidance

Clear written aftercare instructions should be provided.

General hygiene considerations and potential risks associated with body piercings are outlined by the Mayo Clinic in their overview of piercings and potential complications. Their guidance reinforces the importance of proper cleaning and recognising signs of infection.

How painful is a labret piercing?

Pain tolerance varies, but most people describe labret piercings as moderate rather than intense.

You can expect:

• A quick pinch

• Swelling during the first few days

• Mild tenderness when eating or speaking initially

Swelling is normal in the early stage. Initial jewellery is intentionally fitted slightly longer to allow space for this.

How long does a labret piercing take to heal?

Labret piercings typically heal within 6 to 8 weeks. However, internal tissue continues adjusting beyond that point.

Healing is influenced by:

• Oral hygiene

• Smoking or vaping

• Alcohol consumption

• Jewellery movement

It is common for a labret to feel comfortable externally while the internal tissue is still settling. In practice, irritation often develops when jewellery is changed too early or when the initial longer post is left in place for too long.

Surface comfort does not necessarily indicate full internal stabilisation.

Labret piercing aftercare that actually works

Labret aftercare works best when it is straightforward and consistent.

Clean externally with sterile saline

Use sterile saline once or twice daily to clean the outer area.

Rinse internally

Use an alcohol-free mouth rinse after eating during the first few weeks.

Avoid unnecessary movement

Do not twist or play with the jewellery, particularly during swelling.

Maintain oral hygiene

Brush gently and carefully around the area, avoiding trauma.

The Association of Professional Piercers provides widely recognised industry guidance in their official aftercare recommendations, emphasising gentle cleaning and minimal handling during healing. Our recommendations align with these accepted professional standards.

For additional detail on saline use, our guide to saline solution for piercings and proper aftercare explains why sterile saline remains the safest routine option.

When should jewellery be downsized?

Initial jewellery is longer to accommodate swelling. Once swelling has resolved, typically around 2 to 4 weeks, a shorter post may be recommended.

In practice, leaving the initial longer post in place for too long increases the likelihood of accidental biting or gum contact. Timely downsizing improves comfort and reduces unnecessary internal movement.

Jewellery changes should be assessed by a professional before proceeding.

Choosing the right jewellery for a labret piercing

The most common jewellery used is a flat-back labret stud. This consists of:

• A flat disc on the inside of the lip

• A straight post

• A decorative top externally

Implant-grade titanium, such as ASTM F13,6 is commonly used in professional studios because it meets recognised biocompatibility standards for body jewellery. Solid gold is also suitable when specifically designed for body piercing use.

Choosing jewellery designed specifically for lip piercings helps ensure the backing sits correctly, and the post length suits oral anatomy.

If you are planning for a refined upgrade, our collection of 14k gold labret and lip piercing studs features flat-back designs crafted for healed piercings. Explore the collection to find a piece that integrates comfortably into your long-term jewellery setup.

Common jewellery options

Hoops should only be introduced once swelling has resolved and tissue has stabilised.

Can a labret piercing damage teeth or gums?

Because labret jewellery rests inside the mouth, it may contact gum tissue or teeth. Repeated friction over time can increase the risk of irritation.

The American Dental Association notes that oral piercing jewellery can accumulate plaque and may irritate gum tissue if not properly maintained, particularly when jewellery repeatedly contacts soft tissue surfaces. Their guidance on oral piercing jewellery and dental considerations highlights the importance of good oral hygiene and regular monitoring.

Risk is reduced when:

• Jewellery is correctly sized

• Downsizing is completed at the appropriate time

• Habitual movement is avoided

• Routine dental check-ups are maintained

If you experience persistent gum irritation or dental changes, consult a dental professional for assessment.

Labret piercing vs vertical labret

A traditional labret exits inside the mouth.

A vertical labret passes through the lip itself and does not enter the oral cavity.

If you are weighing up the differences, our guide to the vertical labret piercing explains how placement, jewellery and healing considerations vary.

Is a labret piercing right for you?

A labret piercing sits centrally below the lower lip, so it’s easy to picture in day-to-day life. It tends to be most noticeable when you speak and smile.

 

A labret piercing may suit you if:

• You prefer a central, balanced lip placement

• You are prepared to maintain careful oral hygiene

• You value jewellery versatility

• Your anatomy supports safe positioning

It may not be ideal if:

• You grind or clench your teeth heavily

• You habitually bite the inside of your lip

• You prefer no jewellery contact inside the mouth

Careful placement and properly fitted jewellery reduce unnecessary irritation and improve long-term comfort.

In summary

A labret piercing sits centrally below the lower lip and exits inside the mouth. It typically heals within 6 to 8 weeks, although internal stabilisation continues beyond that.

Because it interacts with the oral cavity, hygiene, jewellery sizing and timely downsizing are especially important. Following recognised aftercare guidance and monitoring internal contact points helps reduce irritation.

When positioned correctly and maintained consistently, a labret piercing can sit comfortably and integrate well into a long-term jewellery setup.

For those considering a vertical variation or looking for more detailed placement, healing, and jewellery guidance, you can explore our Vertical Labret Piercing guide, which covers anatomy, aftercare, and long-term wear considerations in greater depth.