“Why is Biting My Nails so Bad?”

Whether it’s out of boredom, nervousness, or your nails just get too long and nail clippers aren’t handy, biting your nails is one of the most common habits. While nail biting may seem to ease stress, at my Holland dental office, we want you to know that it’s not only a great way to transfer germs that could make you sick, it could also lead to a variety of dental problems.

1. Chips. We’re not talking about the salty, crunchy kind. We’re referring to the tooth enamel damage caused by nail biting. Fingernails are hard, and gnawing on them can lead to chips or cracks in the teeth.
2. Wear and Tear. Like the rest of your body, your teeth need to take periodic breaks. If you’re constantly putting stress on them by nail biting, teeth may begin to wear down and could become uneven.
3. Jaw Issues. Biting your nails may lead to TMJ Disorder, which causes painful headaches, locking or popping of the jaw, or jaw pain. Because of the abnormal way your jaw needs to move around to nibble off a nail, it may throw the alignment out of whack, leading to TMJ Disorders.
4. Back to the Grind. The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) states that nail biters may be putting themselves at greater risk for bruxism, or unintentional grinding or clenching of teeth. Grinding and clenching can lead their own host of problems including jaw issues, headaches, and tooth damage.
5. Dental Bills. Since there is such a strong correlation between nail biting and dental problems, it’s not surprising that those who are chronic nail biters end up having higher dental bills than non-biters. According to the AGD, people who bite their nails end up paying an additional $4,000 in dental bills throughout their lifetime.

If you’ve been biting your nails and can’t seem to stop, give my dental office in Holland a call. We can talk about ways others have successfully broken the habit, check your mouth of any potential side effects, and work with you to get your mouth healthy.

Welcoming patients from Holland, Saugatuck, Zeeland, and neighboring areas.

About The Author

Dr. Jeffrey Huisman

Doctor of Dental Surgery

Dr. Jeffrey Huisman believes the best dental care happens when patients feel informed, respected, and involved in every decision. A Holland native and second-generation dentist, Dr. Huisman began working in his father’s practice before graduating from high school. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Calvin College and his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry before joining the family practice in 2001. Since then, he has built a reputation for providing thoughtful, collaborative care that prioritizes patient comfort and long-term oral health. A graduate of the Dawson Academy and member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Huisman continues to pursue advanced training to stay current with the latest techniques in restorative and cosmetic dentistry.

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