Nail biting is an extremely common nervous habit—but that doesn’t mean it’s a good one. It’s a destructive habit that’s worth quitting. It can be challenging to get kids to understand why it’s bad for them, so Pediatric Dentistry Kahala, led by pediatric dentist Allen K. Hirai, DDS, has put together a few of the most important reasons nail biting should be discouraged.

Nails Can Chip Teeth & Cut Gums

Nails are surprisingly tough and can disfigure a tooth. Biting weakens a tooth’s enamel, making it a lot more prone to fracturing and chipping. Jagged fingernails can also cut the gums and make them bleed.

Gaps Can Form

Another way nail biting can disfigure your child’s smile is by causing gaps to form between teeth. How? It may seem strange, but some young children like sticking fingernails between their teeth. Ask your pediatric dentist for advice on discouraging this behavior.

Nails Are Full of Germs

People use their hands at work and school, touching countless different surfaces without washing their hands. The undersides of your child’s nails are especially dirty. If nail biting doesn’t get your child sick first, it can cause oral infections and even gingivitis.

Nail Biting Weakens Tooth Roots

If your child wears braces, nail biting can weaken their tooth roots by causing root resorption.

Nail biting is a bad habit, but it’s not impossible to stop. Both children and adults will benefit from finding a different outlet for that nervous energy. Quitting nail biting is an excellent decision for your teeth and overall health. To set up an appointment with a pediatric dentist for your child, give Pediatric Dentistry Kahala a call at (808) 737-0076. More information about the pediatric dental clinic is available online.