Do you bite your nails when you’re anxious or stressed? If so, you’re not alone; it’s a common habit that 20% to 30% of people participate in. While it might seem harmless, dentists recommend that patients quit this routine to protect their oral health. Below is a brief guide on why dentists advise against nail biting and how you can stop the habit.

How It Damages Teeth

Enamel is the hard, protective, outer layer on your teeth, and nail biting will cause it to erode, chip, and crack. The loss of enamel raises your risk of developing tooth sensitivity, cavities, and discoloration. Beyond this, the pressure on your teeth can crack or chip your whole tooth, as well as cause the roots to shrink, which leads to tooth loss. Your gums may become injured by the sharp edges of your nails, causing swelling, recession, bleeding, and opening the door for gum disease.

A dental clinic will also check for signs of jaw damage in patients who bite their nails, as excessive wear and TMJ issues can develop from nail biting. Chewing your nails also contributes to bruxism, known as teeth grinding, because your facial muscles are tense and overworked. Untreated, bruxism can fracture teeth, wear down chewing surfaces, and cause gum irritation and tooth loss.

How To Kick the Habit

Stopping a habit requires constant correction when you catch yourself doing it and addressing the cause. For instance, excessive caffeine intake can cause nervousness and idle habits, so limit your consumption of coffees, teas, and sodas. Anxiety and high levels of stress can also cause nail biting, which can be remedied by seeking professional help, learning coping mechanisms, and reducing your stress.

Try to identify specific factors or scenarios that make you want to bite your nails and avoid them if possible. If you can’t, use a stress ball or worry stone to keep your hands occupied and away from your mouth. If you’re still struggling, get in touch with a reliable dental clinic that can offer alternative suggestions and minimize the damage to your mouth. With time and persistence, you’ll be able to stop biting your nails to preserve your oral health.

When you need an experienced dentist to check for damage caused by nail-biting, put your trust in the Anchorage Dental Center. Since 1964, they’ve provided high-quality dental care to Alaskan families, with services that range from teeth cleaning to implants and dentures. Learn more about their dental clinic services online, and call (907) 278-2521 to schedule a teeth cleaning or consultation with a licensed dentist.