Shark bites are a paired lip-piercing style made up of four piercings: two on each side of the lower lip. The placement creates a bold, symmetrical look, but it also requires careful jewelry selection, thoughtful aftercare, and attention to possible contact with teeth and gums.

What Are Shark Bites Piercings?

Shark bites typically consist of two closely spaced piercings on each side of the lower lip. They are similar to snake bites, which use one piercing on each side, but shark bites have four piercing points in total. Exact spacing and placement depend on lip shape, anatomy, jewelry choice, and the piercer’s assessment.

Placement and Procedure

A professional piercer should assess the outside and inside of the lip, including how jewelry may sit near the teeth and gums. Before the procedure, the piercer marks the proposed positions and lets you review them from different angles. The piercings should be performed with sterile, single-use needles and appropriately sized jewelry. Symmetry is the goal, although natural facial differences mean perfectly identical placement cannot always be guaranteed.

How Painful Are Shark Bites?

Each piercing usually causes a brief pinch or pressure, followed by tenderness and swelling. Because shark bites involve four piercings, the overall appointment may feel more intense than getting a single lip piercing. Pain varies with individual sensitivity, anatomy, stress, technique, and the amount of swelling that develops.

Healing Time

Healing time varies and may take several weeks to a few months. The outside can appear settled before the piercing channels inside the lip have fully healed. Avoid changing jewelry early unless a qualified piercer recommends a change for fit or safety. Follow-up visits may be needed to assess swelling and downsize jewelry when appropriate.

Best Jewelry for Shark Bites

Flat-back labret studs are commonly used for initial lip piercings because they can sit securely when correctly fitted. Jewelry must leave enough room for initial swelling without being so long that it catches or moves excessively. Implant-grade titanium is a commonly considered material; a qualified piercer can advise on suitable materials and sizing for your anatomy.

Studs vs. Rings

Studs are often easier to manage during initial healing. Rings may be considered later, depending on the placement, anatomy, and healing progress. Do not switch styles based only on appearance; have a professional confirm that the piercings are ready for a change.

Shark Bites Aftercare

1. Wash your hands before necessary contact with the piercings.

2. Follow your piercer’s instructions for gently cleaning the outside of the lip with sterile saline wound wash.

3. Maintain gentle oral hygiene and use only oral-rinse products recommended by your piercer or healthcare professional.

4. Avoid twisting, rotating, pulling, biting, or playing with the jewelry.

5. Choose soft foods if the area is tender, take small bites, and be careful not to catch the jewelry while eating.

6. Avoid unnecessary pressure and friction, and be mindful of jewelry when sleeping.

7. Avoid harsh cleaning products and over-cleaning, which can irritate healing tissue.

8. Attend follow-up appointments and have jewelry downsized or changed only when advised by a qualified professional.

Cost of Shark Bites Piercings

Cost varies by location, studio, piercer experience, jewelry quality, and whether the quoted price includes all four piercings. Ask for a clear breakdown covering the piercing service, initial jewelry, aftercare guidance, and any follow-up or downsizing appointments. Avoid choosing a studio on price alone; hygiene, training, and safe jewelry are important.

Risks and Possible Complications

Swelling and irritation: Some swelling and tenderness can occur early on. Jewelry that is too tight or too long can create additional problems.

Tooth and gum damage: Repeated rubbing or impact from oral jewelry may contribute to enamel wear, chipped teeth, gum irritation, or gum recession.

Infection: Increasing pain, significant swelling, spreading redness, unusual discharge, or fever should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Migration or rejection: Jewelry can shift or the body may gradually push it out, particularly if the placement or tissue is unsuitable.

Catching or tearing: Jewelry may catch on food, clothing, or during daily activities and injure the tissue.

Seek prompt medical advice for severe or worsening pain, significant swelling, fever, persistent bleeding, or concerning discharge. Rapidly increasing swelling or difficulty breathing or swallowing requires urgent medical attention. For persistent tooth or gum symptoms, consult a dentist.

Shark Bites vs. Snake Bites

Frequently Asked Questions

How many piercings are in shark bites?

Four in total: two on each side of the lower lip.

Are shark bites more painful than snake bites?

They involve more piercing points, so the overall experience may feel more intense, but pain varies from person to person.

How long do shark bites take to heal?

Healing can take several weeks to a few months and varies by person and aftercare.

Can shark bites damage teeth or gums?

Yes. Repeated jewelry contact can contribute to tooth or gum problems. Correct placement, suitable fit, and dental monitoring can help reduce avoidable contact.

Can I change the jewelry myself?

Do not change fresh jewelry early. Ask a qualified piercer to assess healing and handle fit-related changes when appropriate.

Can everyone get shark bites?

Not necessarily. Suitability depends on individual anatomy, available tissue, and the position of teeth and gums. A responsible piercer may decline if the placement is unsuitable.

Can the holes close after removing jewelry?

The channels may shrink or close, and small marks or scars may remain. Timing and results vary.

Final Thoughts

Shark bites create a distinctive four-piercing lower-lip look. Before deciding, consider the healing period, the extra care required for four sites, and the possibility of tooth or gum contact. Choose an experienced professional who uses sterile procedures and suitable jewelry, follow their aftercare guidance, and seek professional help if symptoms worsen or do not improve.