Have you ever bitten your nails? Whether you have been a nail-biter since birth or you just do it occasionally to quickly remove that rogue hang-nail, the fact remains that this habit is just as bad for your teeth as it is for first impressions. Here are three dental problems that can stem from nail biting, and why dentists recommend stopping now. 

Chips & Fractures

You never know which position your teeth will be in when that nail finally snaps, which is why people who bite their teeth are at a higher risk for things like dental chips and fractures. Additionally, it isn’t easy to pay attention to how your teeth feel when you are focused on chewing your nails, so focus on avoiding the practice altogether. If you bite your nails as a nervous habit, consider painting your nails with a clear deterrent polish designed to taste terrible. 

Oral Lacerations

Biting your nails also exposes your tongue, palate, and gum tissues to sharp shards of keratin that can be laden with bacteria, increasing your risk of lacerations and infections. Sometimes, these infections can be so severe that they increase your chances of issues like tooth loss. To avoid the temptation to bite your nails, invest in a manicure every week until you curb the habit. 

Root Resorption 

Unfortunately, the excessive, repeated force caused by nail biting can also be hard on your dental roots, causing a serious condition called root resorption. This process occurs when the roots of the teeth are damaged, but the body has no way to remove the injured particles. To find out if your roots have been damaged, ask your dentist for X-rays. 

Are you nervous about how some of your daily habits could be affecting your smile? By scheduling an appointment with the dentists at Dental Clinic of Onalaska, you can find out how you can improve your oral health and hygiene. Dedicated to providing excellent dental care at affordable prices, this team can help you to take the stress out of routine visits. To learn more about how they can help, visit them online or call (608) 783-3341.