What Exactly Are Reverse Angel Fangs?
Defining the Look
If you’ve seen the striking look of fangs pointing down from an upper lip, you’ve likely encountered the reverse angel fangs piercing. This style has carved out a niche in the body modification scene, celebrated for its bold, edgy vibe that stands out from the crowd.
It creates a dramatic illusion, making it a favorite in alternative fashion circles and a growing topic on social media. It’s a look that’s both unique and unmistakable.
Piercing or Dental Mod?
First, let’s clear up a common point of confusion. The term “reverse angel fangs” almost always refers to a specific type of vertical lip piercing, often called “angel bites.” This involves placing curved barbells through the upper lip to mimic fangs.
However, the same name is occasionally used for a permanent dental modification where a person’s actual canine teeth are reshaped. This is a much more intensive and irreversible procedure done by a dental professional, not a piercer.
Breaking Down the Piercing Process
Anatomy is Everything
Can just anyone get this piercing? The short answer is no. Professionals are clear that reverse angel fangs are highly dependent on your individual anatomy. To be a good candidate, you need a full upper lip with a distinct, fleshy ridge.
This structure is necessary to properly support the jewelry and minimize risks. Those with thinner or flatter lips might be advised against it, as the chances of the piercing migrating or rejecting are much higher.
Choosing the Right Piercer
With a complex piercing like this, your choice of piercer is critical. You’re not just paying for a service; you’re investing in experience and safety. Seek out a professional who has a solid portfolio of healed vertical lip piercings.
A great piercer will start with a detailed anatomy check, walk you through the placement, and be upfront about the risks. They should be your trusted guide through this process, so make sure you feel confident in their skills.
The Risks: What You Need to Know
Protecting Your Gums and Teeth
Let’s not sugarcoat it: the biggest risks with a reverse angel fangs piercing are to your oral health. The back of the jewelry rests inside your mouth, creating a high potential for friction against your gums. Over time, this can cause significant gum erosion.
Receding gums can expose the roots of your teeth, leading to sensitivity and other dental issues. While using jewelry with a flat back can help, the risk of damage remains a serious factor to consider.
Migration, Rejection, and Scars
Your lips are constantly moving when you talk and eat, and this movement puts a lot of stress on the piercing. This makes reverse angel fangs more likely to migrate (shift from their original spot) or reject (be pushed out by your body) than many other piercings.
When this happens, it can leave behind noticeable scars. In fact, you should be prepared for some degree of scarring regardless. It’s a permanent reminder you need to be comfortable with before getting pierced.
Healing and Long-Term Care
The Healing Marathon
Healing reverse angel fangs is a marathon, not a sprint. The process is demanding and typically takes anywhere from three to six months. You’ll experience significant swelling at first, which is why a longer initial barbell is used.
Some people have reported success using orthodontic wax as a buffer between the jewelry and their gums during the early weeks. It’s a high-maintenance trick, but it can offer some protection while your body adjusts.
Upkeep for the Long Haul
Proper care doesn’t stop after the piercing has healed. Good oral hygiene is essential to prevent issues down the line. It’s also vital to downsize your jewelry to a snug fit once the initial swelling subsides.
A bar that’s too long can easily snag, while one that’s too short can put pressure on the tissue. Regular check-ins with your piercer are the best way to ensure your jewelry is always the perfect fit.
The Practical Details: Cost, Pain, and Jewelry
What’s the Price Tag?
The cost for a reverse angel fangs piercing typically falls between $60 and $120. This price can fluctuate based on the studio’s location and the piercer’s level of expertise. Always confirm if this price includes the initial jewelry.
How Much Does It Hurt?
While everyone’s pain tolerance is different, most people rate this piercing around a 3 to 5 on a 10-point scale. The upper lip is packed with nerve endings, so expect a sharp pinch. A calm mindset and a skilled piercer can make the experience much smoother.
Picking Your Jewelry
A curved barbell is the go-to jewelry for this style, and many opt for spiked ends to really sell the fang look. Implant-grade titanium is the top recommendation for your initial jewelry because it’s nickel-free and body-safe. You’ll likely be pierced at a 16 gauge.
What Are People Saying?
A quick look at online forums and social media reveals a common theme among those with healed reverse angel fangs: success is achievable, but it demands serious dedication. The community’s stories are filled with advice about anatomy and strict aftercare.
These firsthand accounts offer a realistic glimpse into what it’s like to heal this piercing, from the initial awkwardness of learning to eat again to the ultimate satisfaction of rocking a unique and well-healed look.
So, Is This Piercing for You?
Choosing to get reverse angel fangs is a major decision. It’s about more than just the aesthetic; it’s about committing to a challenging healing process and accepting the potential for permanent changes, like scars and gum damage.
Before you book that appointment, do your homework, have an honest conversation with a top-tier piercer, and decide if you’re truly ready for the commitment. An informed choice is always the best choice.
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