Although not as common, a snake bite piercing is largely similar to many other procedures.  The area is sterilised and entry and exit points are made to ensure it is done where the customer requires.  The lip is clamped, though not pulled taut, as the clamps are used in this case only to reduce the pain of the piercing.  A small, hollow needle is used to make the hole and then thread the jewellery through the skin.  It is recommended by most professionals that studs are used for the initial stage, at least until the healing process has finished; they can be changed for hoops, rings and spikes at a later stage.  It is not wise to get both sides of the snake bite piercing done in one sitting as the mouth will be incredibly swollen and it will be difficult to eat and talk.