18 Feb 2025
Nail-biting is a common habit, often triggered by stress, boredom, or anxiety. While it may seem harmless, nail biting can have serious consequences for your oral health.
This pesty habit can hurt your teeth and gums while also introducing harmful bacteria.
Keep reading to learn more about the effects of nail-biting on your dental health.
How Nail-Biting Affects Your Teeth
Biting your teeth can affect your smile in several ways:
- Chipped and Worn Teeth: The hard surface of nails can weaken enamel, increasing the risk of chips, fractures, and uneven wear.
- Increased Sensitivity: As enamel wears down, teeth become more sensitive to hot, cold, and sweet foods.
- Misalignment: Constant nail biting can shift teeth out of alignment, leading to bite issues that may require orthodontic treatment.
Impact on Gums and Soft Tissue
In addition to affecting your teeth, biting your nails can harm your gums in the following ways:
- Gum Irritation: Biting nails can cause small cuts or abrasions on the gums, leading to discomfort and a higher risk of infection.
- Bacterial Transfer: Fingernails carry bacteria and dirt that can contribute to gum disease and bad breath.
Read more: A Practical Guide to Tackling Chronic Bad Breath
Risk of Jaw and Joint Issues
Habitual nail biting puts stress on the jaw, which can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. You may experience jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing.
Breaking the Habit for Better Oral Health
If you’re struggling to stop nail-biting, try these strategies:
- Keep nails trimmed and filed to reduce temptation.
- Use bitter-tasting nail polish to deter biting.
- Identify stress triggers and find alternative coping mechanisms like fidget tools.
Get Dental Care at Fonthill Marketplace Dental in Fonthill and Welland
If nail-biting has affected your teeth, Fonthill Marketplace Dental can help restore your smile. We offer a wide range of services to address tooth damage, gum health concerns, TMJ, and more.
Contact us for an appointment today!