Bad habits such as not making the bed, or leaving your laundry on the floor are can annoy some people, but, fortunately, aren’t detrimental to your health. On the other hand, would you be surprised to learn that nail biting can lead to problems with your teeth, but can also cause other issues?
You see, nails are usually the dirtiest part of a person’s hand. As such, they tend to be filled with germs and bacteria. If this bacteria gets into your mouth, you’ll be more likely to deal with plaque buildup and tooth decay. Similarly, continually biting your nails can eventually wear down your teeth or cause mini-fractures.
Similarly, nail biting can promote bruxism, which can also be caused by anxiety or stress. Bruxism, which is also referred to as teeth grinding, can lead to a number of problems. For instance, bruxism can lead to shifting or dislodged teeth, frequent headaches, and can even cause problems with your jaw.
Luckily, nail biting can be conquered. For example, trimming your nails short could mean there are no nails to bite. Similarly, if you spend money on your nails, such as a manicure, you are also less likely to bite your nails. Also knowing why you bite your nails will help. For example, if you bite your nails when you’re nervous or stressed, learning to manage those feelings will help.
If you bite your nails, we recommend visiting our dentist, Dr. Harjeet Mundra for a checkup. Our team will be able to assess the damage and help you come up with a plan for your unique situation. If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment, please feel free to contact Grace Family Dental at 5084257180.
