I would advise you to talk to your piercer if you have any questions or concerns about it. When I got mine done, there was no swelling at all (my piercer didn't use clamps on mine. He said that tongues swell more from the clamping than the actual piercing), but my piercer also told me NOT to use mouthwash for the first week or two as the chemicals in antiseptic mouthwash could irritate it. The mouth heals so fast on its own that he recommended rinsing with bottled water after each meal and after brushing my teeth. Like I said, no swelling at all and I was healed and eating and talking 100% normally within a week.

I personally have had mine for 12 years or so. I have SEVERAL chipped teeth and worn down enamel to show for it. Once I have the money to start on thousands of dollars of dental work I'm sure I need as a result, I will be taking mine out. My recommendation is to pay with it as LITTLE as possible. Also, definitely switch to a shorter bar and plastic balls on the end once the swelling goes down to avoid damage to your teeth as much as possible.