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You might be so used to biting your nails that it’s not really something you worry about too much anymore. Sure, you hide your fingers from time to time, so nobody can see the evidence of this habit. However, as for any other concerns, they may not have made it onto your radar. Your Riverside dentist would like to remind you that nail biting is dangerous for you! Consider some reasons and then spend some time reflecting on why it’s time to do something about it.

It Hurts Your Teeth

When you bite your nails, you can hurt your teeth. Your Riverside dentist know that you may say something to the effect of, “But I have such soft nails!” Whether it’s your nails or your teeth-against-teeth action that causes the problem, you can most certainly end up damaging your enamel by chipping it or by wearing it down.

It Hurts Your Jaws

Remember that your decision to bite your nails (yes, your Riverside dentist recognizes that this can become a habit that will take a while to stop) can also negatively affect your jaw health. All of that movement back and forth and in strange positions can cause jaw joints stress. Stop the habit and you can potentially avoid issues with TMJs and grinding/clenching.

It Can Cut Your Gums

One slip of your finger and you can accidentally slice your gum tissue. This is never comfortable. Avoid such problems by keeping fingers out of your mouth.

It Can Make You Sick

About that whole “keep your fingers out of your mouth” plan: Your Riverside dentist reminds you that when you bite your nails, you may be transferring all sorts of unwelcome germs (like the cold or flu) into your body!

See Us For Help With Dental Issues

Wish you could stop biting your nails but you need some help? Trying to address minor damage like chips? Talk with us about your dental concerns during your next visit! Give us a call in Riverside, CA to schedule a consultation with your dentist. We are proud to serve patients from Riverside, Temecula, Moreno Valley, Corona, and all surrounding California communities. To schedule an appointment, contact one of the following locations nearest to you:

Riverside Dental Group at Magnolia in Riverside, CA at (951) 689-5031.

Dental Associates of Moreno Valley in Moreno Valley, CA at (951) 697-6800.

Riverside Dental Group at Woodcrest in Riverside, CA at (951) 776-9001.

Oasis Family Dental in Temecula, CA at (951) 695-2290.

Dental Associates of Riverside in Riverside, CA at (951) 369-1001.

Dental Associates of Corona in Corona, CA at (951) 273-9580.