Nail biting may seem like a harmless habit, but it can actually have some serious consequences for your physical and mental health. Here are a few surprising ways nail biting can impact your well-being:
- Damage to teeth: Constant nail biting can put a lot of pressure on your teeth and lead to problems such as chipped teeth, jaw pain, and even TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder).
- Infections: Biting your nails can expose you to all kinds of germs and bacteria that can lead to infections. It can also spread bacteria from your mouth to your nails, which can cause nail infections.
- Poor nail appearance: Biting your nails can leave them ragged and uneven, which can be unsightly and make you self-conscious about your appearance. It can also lead to peeling and cracking of the nails, which can be painful.
- Emotional distress: Nail biting is often a sign of stress, anxiety, or other underlying emotional issues. If you find yourself unable to stop biting your nails, it might be worth exploring these underlying issues with a mental health professional.