Prior to what happens after the piercing, it's recommended that you clean your teeth, mouth, and gums throughly before your appointment. Love to Know suggests also giving your teeth a good floss, and well as swishing some antiseptic mouthwash around to get rid of all the germs that could potentially cause a painful infection (and possible rejection). This mouth cleaning routine will be an integral part of the after-care routine too, in order to keep the piercing healthy and to prevent infection.
Wherever you get pierced, it will be sore and painful following the initial piercing. But it's a little different with the tongue, as it can interrupt the way you usually eat or drink. Love to Know recommends eating soft foods for the first two days to prevent pain, as well as frequently rising your mouth out with a salt rinse. This can also be used throughout the day to mitigate pain or swelling (via Healthline). Hot drinks are also to be avoided in the first week or so of having the piercing, as it can cause further swelling.
