The Expensive Habit of Nail Biting

Contributed by Specialist Dental Group

Other than brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist once every 6 months there are habits that you should break if you want to keep your teeth strong and healthy – e.g.  nail biting.  There are many reasons why one should stop this bad habit before it compromises your ability to smile with confidence.

Nail Biting, which is clinically known as onychophagia, is a condition in which sufferers start biting their fingernails and the skin around the nails and cuticles, whenever they get anxious or nervous.

Apart from the unaesthetic shape of their fingernails, nail biters could also cause damage to their teeth. Nails are hard, so when you bite down on them you are causing stress to your teeth. Over time this weakens the teeth and can eventually result in a tooth chipping or breaking.

Nail biting also causes stress to the gums, as well as increases the risk of bitten nails tearing into the gum tissue. In the long run, it will cause gum disease which will eventually cause loose teeth, missing teeth and other related issues.

If, however, nail biting has already caused damage to your teeth, apart from getting professional help to stop the habit, you need to see your dentist to reverse the damage. Bonding, veneers, or crowns are several treatment options that might be recommended for chipped teeth. Depending on the severity, your dentist will advise on the best option for your situation.  


Specialist Dental Group is a corporate sponsor of the Canadian Association of Singapore (CAS). For more information on different types of dental treatments, send an enquiry via www.specialistdentalgroup.com or call 6733 7883.