Do you bite your nails? Do you know that nail biting is considered a bad habit and sometimes a disorder?

Nail biting is a common behavior seen in children but sometimes in adults as well.

Breaking a bad habit is hard, usually when a person is under great amount of pressure the body does involuntary habits to cope with the stress such as biting the nails, pens, straws and so on.

In dentistry children or adults who bite their nails could crack, chip or wear down their front teeth from the stress caused by biting.

Biting your nails not only ruins your manicure, it could also cause bacterial infection. As you chew your nails bacteria, yeast, and other microorganisms can enter through tiny tears or abrasions, leading to swelling, redness, and pus around your nail.

So before worrying if you spoiled your nail polish, pay more attention to your oral health because this small act you thought is harmless could cost you more than you expected.

 If you’re experiencing these signs, contact Dr. Rabih Abi Nader for professional advice.