Quick Summary
Nails are hard, so biting them puts stress on your teeth in the same way chewing ice does. Over time teeth weaken and can chip or break, and because nail biting is repetitive it wears teeth down faster than normal. Teeth also become more sensitive as enamel wears, and biting can move teeth out of place. The extra stress on gums can eventually contribute to gum disease and tooth loss.
Most people who bite their nails wish they didn’t do it. If you’re a nail biter, you probably know that it spreads germs and leaves your nails looking unattractive. But did you know that it can harm your teeth? Let’s find out the connection between nail biting and tooth damage, and learn some ways to stop this nasty habit.
What does nail biting do to my teeth?
Just like chewing on hard items like ice, nails are hard and put stress on your teeth when you bite down on them. With time, your teeth will weaken and your teeth can chip or break. Since nail biting is a repetitive habit, constant chewing on your teeth wears them down faster than they should. Your teeth also can become more sensitive when the enamel is worn down. Additionally, biting your nails can move your teeth out of place. Your gums are at risk too from the additional stress the nail biting puts on them, eventually leading to gum disease and even tooth loss.
What if I wear braces?
Braces already add pressure on your teeth, so nail biting can stress them even more. The roots of your teeth can be weakened, which leads to problems like tooth loss.
How can I stop biting my nails?
Here are some tips to help you stop the nail biting habit:
- Get a hobby that uses your hands, like video games, knitting, or painting.
- Occupy your mouth by chewing sugarless gum, sucking on mints, or eating carrot sticks.
- Add foods to your diet containing calcium and magnesium because they help repair and grow your nails.
- Cover your nails with tape, petroleum jelly, fake nails (for girls), or foul-tasting liquid.
- Get manicures to make your nails look nice, so you will be less inclined to bite them.
Are dental issues holding you back? Take control of your oral health by booking an appointment with our experienced team at our Billerica dental office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does nail biting do to my teeth?
Nails are hard and put stress on your teeth when you bite down on them, much like chewing ice. Over time teeth weaken and can chip or break, and the repetitive habit wears them down faster than they should. Teeth can also become more sensitive as enamel is worn down, and biting can move teeth out of place.
Is nail biting worse if I wear braces?
Braces already add pressure on your teeth, so nail biting can stress them even more. The roots of the teeth can be weakened, which leads to problems such as tooth loss.
How can I stop biting my nails?
Take up a hobby that uses your hands, occupy your mouth with sugarless gum, mints or carrot sticks, add calcium and magnesium to your diet to help nails repair and grow, cover your nails with tape, petroleum jelly, fake nails or a foul-tasting liquid, and get manicures so your nails look nice enough that you are less inclined to bite them.
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