Nail biting is something that many of us do without even thinking about it. Some people do it out of nervousness, and others do it because they fidget. While most people know that biting nails isn’t great for hygiene or nail health, few are aware of its impact on dental health. Did you know that nail biting can damage your teeth?
Nail Biting Can Wear Down Tooth Enamel
The enamel on your teeth is durable and designed to withstand chewing food. It’s designed to protect your teeth from the wear and tear of chewing. However, the enamel on your teeth will wear down gradually from biting hard objects. Your nails are hard enough to wear away the enamel.
Over time, the pressure from biting hard nails can thin the enamel, leading to increased sensitivity, uneven biting surfaces, and greater vulnerability to tooth decay. Worn-down enamel also makes teeth more prone to cracking, chipping, and discoloration. The damage done by nail biting might be gradual, but its effects can last a lifetime without proper care.
Puts Too Much Stress On The Front Teeth
Just like the worry you have with a child that sucks their thumb, nail biting can cause front teeth to move. When you push on your teeth non-stop, it will make a difference. Teeth can move no matter how old you are. It is not just a concern for young children.
Misalignment of Teeth
As we mentioned teeth can shift at any age. Repeatedly pushing on the teeth with a hard object—like a nail—can lead to slight misalignments, particularly in the front teeth. This can alter the alignment of your smile, creating gaps or overlaps that weren’t there before. While braces or retainers can help realign teeth, these are costly and time-consuming treatments that can be avoided by curbing the nail-biting habit early on.
Your Teeth Do Not Get a Break
Teeth are designed to chew your food during meals. Between meals, they need a break along with your jaw. If you have a bad habit of nail biting, it will put added stress that your teeth were not designed to take.
Nail Biting Strains the Jaw and Causes TMJ Pain
Constant tooth biting puts more strain on your jaw than it can take, leading to TMJ disorder. Those with this disorder experience pain in their face, shoulders, neck, and back. Some have a difficult time opening their mouths as wide as needed. Headaches are another symptom of TMJ disorder.
TMJ pain is a common condition among nail biters. It is characterized by jaw stiffness, pain in the face, neck, and shoulders, and frequent headaches. In severe cases, TMJ issues can restrict the jaw’s range of motion, making it difficult to open and close the mouth fully.
Nail Biting Can Cause Bruxism
Not familiar with Bruxism? This condition is where you unconsciously grind or clench your teeth, especially at night. When you bite your nails throughout the day, it can lead to this involuntary biting at night.
Nail biting throughout the day can create an overuse of jaw muscles, increasing the likelihood of bruxism. Individuals who bite their nails are often unaware they are putting undue stress on their jaws, which may lead to bruxism. Over time, this condition can wear down the teeth further and cause jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, and even fractures.
Increased Risk of Tooth Damage and Chips
Biting on your nails exerts constant pressure on your front teeth. This repetitive motion can weaken the tooth structure, causing chips and small fractures over time. Unlike foods that are designed to be soft enough for chewing, fingernails are dense and can put considerable stress on the teeth. Individuals who bite their nails frequently or with significant force are at a higher risk of cracks and chips that may require cosmetic or restorative dental procedures to repair.
Possible Infection Risks
Your hands and fingernails come into contact with various surfaces throughout the day, making them a potential source of bacteria and other pathogens. You transfer those bacteria into your mouth when you bite your nails. This can increase your risk of oral infections, gum inflammation, and even tooth abscesses in severe cases. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, but if you continue to bite your nails, it’s difficult to keep harmful bacteria out.
Breaking the Habit and Protecting Your Teeth
Breaking the habit of nail biting can be challenging, but it’s essential for protecting your dental health. Here are a few tips to help:
- Keep Your Nails Trimmed: Short nails reduce the temptation to bite.
- Use Bitter-Tasting Nail Polish: Many over-the-counter products can discourage nail-biting.
- Reduce Stress: Many people bite their nails due to stress. Consider stress-relief practices like mindfulness, yoga, or exercise.
- Consult a Therapist: Habitual nail biting may sometimes be linked to anxiety. Therapy or counseling can help manage the underlying causes.
Pro Dental Dallas Has Solutions for Nail-Biting-Related Dental Damage
If you’re a frequent nail biter, you might already be experiencing some of the damage listed above. The good news is that there are ways to restore and protect your teeth. Dr. Roe at North Dallas Denture Center provides comprehensive solutions for those dealing with the aftermath of nail biting.
For those who have worn down enamel, Dr. Roe offers cosmetic procedures that can restore the look and functionality of your teeth. If bruxism is an issue, he can also custom-fit a mouthguard to alleviate night grinding or clenching. This mouthguard is designed for your unique bite, providing optimal comfort and protection.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Concerned about the effects of nail biting on your teeth? Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Dr. Roe at Pro Dental Dallas to discuss treatment options and preventative solutions. Book an appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier smile. Dr. Roe proudly serves patients in Dallas, Plano, Garland, North Dallas, and the surrounding areas.
