As all the others said, try not ot smoke or drink during the healing process, but if you do use a non-alcoholic mouthwash, such as Crest Pro Health. Mouthwash will be your best friend. Also, I had more trouble during the week after I got it done. I couldn’t eat or talk properly. But I know others who could eat solid food the day they got it pierced.
About the work questions, I have been at my job for 8 months and no one knows I have mine pierced! Unless I point it out it’s not very noticeable (unless you get it towards the front of your tongue). There is also the option of getting a retainer.
Good luck! You’ll love it.