Nail biting is a gross habit yet very common among people. Gone are the days when people used to bite nails just when nervous. No doubt it annoying when you see somebody biting nails in front of you. Or may be if you are the one who is often caught biting nails, you will people getting annoyed.
Nail biting also known as onychophagia is a dangerous habit getting common and addictive. Estimates suggest that 30 percent of children, 45 percent of teenagers, 25 percent of young adults, and 5 percent of older adults bite their nails. People often consider it child hood habit, out of stress, nervousness, when depressed, or isolated and many other reasons.
But no matter what is the reason, if you bite nails regularly you should worry!
Bacterial Infections
Biting nails regularly can definitely cause bacterial problems in your mouth. Your nails are hives of germs, fungal and even yeast, and that can definitely cause problems without a doubt. As you bite your nails those bacteria can go inside your body and can cause major infections. They can cause problems like oral boils.
Nail Infection
Yes, biting nails can even cause problems in your nails. As you chew your nails you end up giving yourself tiny abrasions and bruises. And all this can cause bacteria to get inside and cause problems of nail infections. All this can lead to pus, redness, swelling and various other problems.
Warts
Chronic nail biters are always at the risk of developing warts on their fingers. These warts can be transferred to your body inside, and in your mouth. And I don’t need to tell that it is GROSS!
Dental Problems
Another kind of problem regular nail biters develop are dental problems. It can cause problems with the positions of teeth. They might wear down before time or may get weakened. Upon first noticing any dental problems, you should schedule an appointment to see your Dentist Sacramento as soon as possible.
Impaired Quality of life
A study published this year found that people who chronically bite their nails report significantly higher quality of life impairment than those who do not.
The level of impairment rises with time spent on nail biting, the number of involved fingernails and those who report visible nail abnormalities. Tension when trying to resist nail biting, suffering due to nail biting or nail-eating behavior also negatively influenced quality of life.
