Nail biting is a common habit. While it may seem harmless, it can potentially cause serious issues to your oral health. The impact of biting your nails can be subtle, but you may eventually notice signs of damage. Eliminating unhealthy practices and sticking to regular general dentistry exams will ensure you maintain your smile.

Your Guide to Nail Biting & Oral Health

How It Affects Teeth

When you bite down on your nails, you’re putting pressure on your front teeth. Over time, you’ll begin to wear down your enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to decay. Biting hard enough may also lead to chips that require cosmetic repairs. Research suggests that long-term nail biting may also lead to oral health issues like temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ) — a painful jaw condition — and teeth grinding. Each of these can negatively influence oral health, further wear down enamel, and in the case of TMJ, cause debilitating pain that in extreme cases may require surgery.

Your fingernails are also home to countless bacteria that you introduce into your mouth when you bite. Some of these could be harmful and contribute to gum infections. Others may spread throughout your body and cause general illnesses like the flu or cold. Serious infections may cause extreme inflammation and destroy gum tissue.

How to Stop

Breaking any habit takes time and dedication, but it’s especially hard to stop nail biting because many people do it unthinkingly. To begin, list what triggers you to bite your nails. Stress, boredom, and social anxiety are common culprits. Once you’ve identified these underlying causes, you’re more likely to be aware of vulnerabilities and make conscious efforts to stop. Keep your nails trimmed to limit the temptation to bite. Occupying your hands can also do wonders. Invest in a stress stone or small trinket you can fiddle with discreetly instead. Eliminating this harmful habit and keeping up to date with general dentistry exams will keep your mouth healthy.

Wholesome practices and general dentistry exams are crucial to oral care. If you’re overdue for a routine appointment or need help building better habits, the team at Aina Haina Dental Group will help. Serving East Honolulu since 1976, Dr. Keith W Morikawa, DDS, and his team treat a number of issues ranging from tooth fillings for cavities to gum disease. They welcome patients of every age at their comfortable office. Learn more about their general dentistry services on their website and call (808) 373-2184 to schedule a teeth cleaning.