When you’re feeling anxious or nervous, how do you cope? Do you meditate, practice deep breathing, or bite your nails? If you bite your nails, you’re not alone—it’s a common habit for many people.
Some people bite their nails without even thinking about it. While it might seem harmless, this habit can have serious effects on your health. It’s not just your nails that suffer. Nail biting can also affect your oral health and overall well-being.
Oral Health: More Than Just Teeth
Nail biting doesn’t just harm your nails—it can also damage your mouth. While your teeth take the brunt of the damage, nail biting can cause a chain reaction that affects your whole mouth.
Your mouth needs balance to stay healthy. Biting your nails throws off that balance, leading to several dental and health issues.
How Nail Biting Hurts Your Teeth
One of the first things to suffer from nail biting is your teeth. Constantly biting your nails can cause your teeth to crack or chip, allowing bacteria to enter and cause decay or infection. Over time, nail biting can also wear down your teeth, leading to enamel erosion, which weakens your teeth.
Additionally, biting your nails puts extra pressure on your teeth, which can cause them to shift out of place. This may lead to crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw. Crooked teeth are harder to clean properly, while a misaligned jaw can cause headaches, TMJ, or difficulty chewing.
Gum Damage and Infections
Nail biting can also harm your gums. Your nails can scratch or cut the soft tissue, leading to soreness, bleeding, and even open wounds. These cuts create an entry point for bacteria, increasing your risk of infection, which can be dangerous if not treated.
Compromised Oral Hygiene
Putting your fingers in your mouth transfers dirt and bacteria. The germs hiding under your nails can end up in your mouth, which can negatively affect your oral hygiene. This can lead to a higher risk of cavities or gum disease.
Impact on Self-Esteem
Nail biting doesn’t just hurt your teeth and gums—it can also damage your self-esteem. It can make your nails look rough and unattractive, which might make you feel embarrassed in social situations.
If you’re concerned about how nail biting affects your health or appearance, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist and work on breaking the habit.