Is Nail-Biting Bad for Your Dental Health?

Many people out there think that it is okay to bite nails, considering it a harmless habit. But that's not the thing. Nail-biting is a bad habit, and if you have it, we would suggest you quit it as early as possible. Read on to learn more about it!

What if you bite your nails way too much?

No matter how clean your fingernails look, there might be plenty of bacteria like E. coli and salmonella accumulated in them that can make you fall sick. Experts claim that nail-biting and infection work together; this means it is easy to transmit bacteria from your fingers to the mouth and gut. Over time, this habit may lead to gastrointestinal infections.

This isn't the only problem that nail-biting can lead to; instead, you may develop a painful infection on your fingertips which is called paronychia. This makes your nail-bed red and swollen, thus, resulting in the release of pus which can only be drained through surgical procedures.

How does this habit affect your oral health?

If that's not enough to keep your fingers out of your mouth, there's more. As per the ADA or American Dental Association, nail-biting is a nervous habit that can make your teeth chipped or cracked. If people with braces have this habit, there are high chances of root resorption and tooth loss.

Certain studies and researches prove nail biters are at risk of developing bruxism or teeth grinding. It may worsen, leading to headaches, TMD, gum recession, tooth sensitivity, etc.

How can you stop the nail-biting habit?

For some, the reason for nail-biting is stress, while for others, it's just an unconscious habit. ADA recommends such patients put on bitter-tasting nail polish to reduce the urge to bite on them. 

If it's the stress, then set little goals every day to make you feel at ease over time. Practice daily exercise and mindful meditation to relieve yourself from stress and anxiety.

Make sure to visit your dentist for routine dental examinations. Our dentist in Orange County will look into the damage created by your nail-biting habit and recommend strategies to avoid any health concerns in the future.

If you have any questions about nail-biting, book an appointment with our cosmetic dentist in Orange County at Vida Dentistry at 25270 Marguerite Pkwy Suite C, Mission Viejo, CA 92692. You can call us at (949) 209-8889! We are always here to guide you.