We’ve all been there. Nail biting. Whether it’s an anxious moment or a bad habit from the start, it could be potentially dangerous to your teeth and gums! It’s not recommended to use your teeth as tools to begin with, so biting at your nails could damage the enamel; therefore causing your teeth to chip and break. Regularly biting at your nails could also cause your teeth to shift over time.
Another thing to keep in mind: Germs. Underneath your nails is the perfect spot for germs and bacteria to grow. Biting and breaking your nails in your mouth is an invitation to get sick or infect your gums – causing damage to your teeth.
If you bite your nails and wish to stop, invest in a mouth guard! A properly fitted mouth guard will put a kibosh on nail biting, grinding your teeth, or clenching your jaw. Some insurance companies do have coverage for mouth guards, so feel free to ask your dental office to submit a pre-authorization to your insurance company to find out the details!