Smiley Piercing Guide UK

Smiley Piercing: Healing, Aftercare and What to Expect in the UK

A Smiley piercing is a hidden gem—literally. Nestled in the thin tissue that connects your upper lip to your gums, it only flashes into view when you smile, laugh or speak, giving it an almost secretive appeal. Subtle, playful and a little cheeky, this oral piercing has grown in popularity across UK studios for its simplicity and charm.

But as with all piercings, especially those in or near the mouth, it’s important to know exactly what you’re signing up for. From the procedure and healing time to long-term wear and potential risks, here’s everything you need to know about the Smiley piercing before getting it done.

What Is a Smiley Piercing?

The Smiley piercing—technically known as a frenulum piercing—goes through the small flap of tissue that connects your upper lip to your upper gum. It’s called a “Smiley” because it typically only becomes visible when you smile or lift your lip, giving it a hidden, peek-a-boo quality that appeals to those who like discreet body adornment.

It’s usually fitted with a small circular barbell or a captive bead ring, allowing for a flash of metal (or a tiny gemstone) to show when you laugh or talk. It’s a quick, relatively easy piercing—but it comes with its own considerations, particularly where gum and dental health are concerned.

The Piercing Process

Before the piercing begins, your piercer will assess the thickness and position of your upper frenulum. Not everyone is anatomically suited for this piercing—some frenulums are too thin or tight to hold jewellery safely, and attempting to pierce them may result in migration or tearing. A good piercer will be honest if it’s not suitable for you.

If your anatomy is compatible, the area is cleaned and sterilised. You’ll be asked to tilt your head back and lift your upper lip. Using a small, sterile needle, the piercer will pass through the frenulum quickly and gently, usually with minimal discomfort. The jewellery is then inserted, and you’ll be provided with thorough aftercare guidance.

The entire process is swift, often taking under five minutes from start to finish.

How Painful Is It?

The Smiley piercing is surprisingly low on the pain scale for most people. The frenulum is a thin and relatively under-sensitive piece of tissue, so the actual piercing tends to feel like a quick pinch or sting, followed by a dull pressure. It’s over in seconds, and most clients say it’s much easier than expected.

Some swelling, tenderness and tightness in the upper lip area is common for the first few days, but it usually settles quickly with proper care.

Healing Time and What to Expect

A Smiley piercing generally heals within four to eight weeks, though this depends on how well you care for it and whether there’s any irritation from movement or jewellery rubbing against your gums or teeth.

Swelling typically peaks within the first 48 hours and starts to reduce after that. It may feel odd to move your lip or smile fully in the early days, but the sensation should ease quickly. Good oral hygiene and gentle aftercare are key to a smooth healing process.

Once healed, many people find they forget it’s there—until someone catches a glimpse during a grin.

Aftercare Tips

Being an oral piercing, the Smiley needs consistent care to heal properly. Rinse your mouth with a non-alcoholic mouthwash or saline solution after every meal, drink (apart from water), or smoke. This helps prevent food particles and bacteria from irritating the piercing.

Avoid playing with the jewellery using your tongue or teeth, and don’t rotate or flip the ring—it might be tempting, but this can introduce bacteria and prolong healing.

Steer clear of spicy, salty or acidic foods in the first few days, and limit alcohol and smoking while your mouth is healing. Also avoid kissing and oral contact until the tissue has settled fully.

Brush your teeth gently, and try to keep your toothbrush and hands clean at all times. If you notice any unusual discomfort, sharp edges or contact with your teeth, speak to your piercer—downsizing or switching jewellery might be necessary.

Cost of a Smiley Piercing in the UK

The average cost for a Smiley piercing in the UK is between £30 and £50, depending on the studio and the jewellery you choose. The price should include the consultation, sterile procedure, initial jewellery and aftercare instructions.

Upgraded jewellery—such as gold rings, titanium pieces or crystal-set options—may cost more. Always confirm that the jewellery is implant-grade and suitable for oral wear, as cheaper alternatives can lead to irritation or rejection.

Risks and What to Be Aware Of

The main concern with Smiley piercings is gum and dental health. If the ring rubs against your gums or teeth over time, it can cause enamel wear, gum recession or even tooth sensitivity. This risk increases if the jewellery is too thick, too large or left in place for long periods without being changed.

Migration is also common—because the frenulum is a small, delicate bit of skin, it’s not uncommon for the piercing to gradually move or even reject over time. For many, this piercing is semi-permanent at best, lasting a few months to a couple of years before needing removal.

Other risks include infection, swelling and embedding if the ring is too tight or the piercing is irritated. Signs of trouble include redness, pus, persistent swelling or discomfort beyond the usual healing period.

To avoid complications, keep up with oral hygiene, avoid unnecessary movement and check in with your piercer if anything feels off.

Is It Right for You?

The Smiley piercing is ideal for people looking for something subtle, stylish and a bit different. It’s not constantly visible, which makes it perfect for those who want a piercing that’s more personal than public. It suits a wide range of styles and looks especially effective when paired with other facial piercings.

However, if you have gum sensitivity, enamel erosion or braces, you’ll want to proceed with caution—or consider an alternative placement. Not everyone has the right frenulum for the piercing, so a proper consultation is crucial before going ahead.

Also bear in mind that this piercing might not last forever—many people choose it knowing it could be a short-term feature, and that's perfectly fine.

UK Studio Standards

A reputable UK piercing studio will be council-registered, fully licensed and follow strict hygiene regulations. For oral piercings, this means sterile, single-use needles, implant-grade jewellery (usually titanium) and a sterile environment for both consultation and procedure.

Your piercer should wear gloves throughout, explain every step clearly and provide thorough aftercare instructions. They should also assess your anatomy honestly—if they tell you the Smiley isn’t suitable for your frenulum, trust their judgement.

If you feel rushed, pressured or uncomfortable, don’t proceed. A professional studio will always prioritise your health and safety over making a sale.

Smiley Piercing FAQs

Can I eat and drink normally after the piercing? Yes, but stick to soft, non-acidic foods for the first few days, and rinse your mouth after eating. Avoid chewing gum and fizzy drinks until you’ve healed.

Will it damage my teeth? If fitted and cared for properly, it shouldn’t—but if the jewellery rubs against your teeth or gums, it can cause damage over time. Regular check-ups and correct jewellery sizing are important.

How long does it last? For many, the Smiley lasts several months to a few years. Others find it rejects sooner. It depends on anatomy, jewellery, and care.

Can I change the jewellery myself? Once fully healed, yes—but it’s often awkward to do alone. Many prefer to return to their piercer to avoid damaging the tissue.

Is it easy to hide? Very. Unless you lift your upper lip or laugh broadly, most people won’t notice it’s there making it one of the most discreet facial piercings available.

Final Thoughts

The Smiley piercing is playful, stylish and surprisingly understated. For many, it’s a joyful little secret—visible only when smiling or laughing, and all the more charming for its hidden nature. With a quick procedure, minimal discomfort and a relatively fast healing time, it’s an accessible choice for both piercing newcomers and seasoned collectors.

Just remember—dental health comes first. If your anatomy is compatible and you're ready to commit to the aftercare, the Smiley can be a beautiful and confident addition to your look. And if your body says no? There are plenty of other gorgeous piercings to explore.