Finger Nail Biting Will Harm Your Children's Teeth
A study released by the Academy of General Dentistry tells us that the habitual biting
of your finger nails can lead to fractured, cracked, chipped and worn front teeth and expensive dental bills.
Nail biting affects around 30% of children between 7 to 10 years and 45% of teenagers. ( ref :Leung AK, Robson WL (1990). "Nailbiting".)
In many cases the front teeth, not meant for constant chewing will develop cracks in their enamel and their shape can take on the shape of the nail biters fingernails,
People wearing orthodontic braces are affected to a greater extent by nail biting. This is because of the added pressure exerted by nail biting in addition to the already existing massive pressure that is exerted by the orthodontic braces that are attempting to re-position the patient's teeth.
Over a patient's lifetime it has been estimated that nail biting can lead to increased dental bills on average in the range of $4000 resulting from chipped or eroded teeth. In one case a Chicago man paid over $15,000 to repair damages to his teeth
Nail biting can also transfer bacteria from the nail bed into the mouth and from the mouth to the nail bed and subsequently the patient's blood stream
A commonly used and effective deterrent to nail biting is a well known clear nail polish with a bad taste to discourage biting. This has been proven to be effective in many cases.
Some dentists may also recommend mouth guards in extreme cases
The application of Veneers can be another deterrent as veneers are not as sharp as a normal tooth surface and hence do not provide the same satisfaction to the nail biter. Nail biters will often find the sensation of biting with veneers on their teeth to be aggravating rather than satisfying and this could lead to a reduction in nail biting
A diet that includes foods that are rich in calcium and magnesium will help grow stronger and healthier nails repairing damage from nail biting
You should speak to your children's Pediatric Dentist for specific advice on the effects of nail biting on your kid's teeth
Adults should also consult their dentist to assess and prevent further damage and to recommend treatment