i got my tongue pierced more than a year ago and i love it... things like that differentiate between people, but mine didnt really hurt too bad other than the three days after i got it done.. may i recommend Biotene instead of listerene and also Glyoxide will help it heal much faster.. mine didnt swell at all, and i never developed a speech impediment!! i was lucky..actually im looking into getting it done again.. i cant wait....