If you've decided to pierce your tongue and wear a tongue ring, you should take steps to periodically sterilize the ring. Do this every six to eight weeks to prevent mouth infections or irritations. Choose from among several methods to sterilize your ring. You need not perform them all.
Boil enough water to fill a coffee mug. Place the tongue ring in the bottom of the cup and pour the boiling water over it. Let it sit for several minutes before removing. This method may be better for plastic rings.
Submerge the tongue ring in a small cup of rubbing alcohol or peroxide and let it sit for 10 minutes. Rinse before wearing.
Soak the tongue ring in mouthwash. Remember, the same bacteria on the tongue ring are in your mouth. If mouthwash kills germs in your mouth, it should take care of the ones on the tongue ring.