Biting nails or chewing the end of a pen when stressed is a habit many people have. It does not only affect the fingers, it can also harm the teeth and the jaw joint.
- Biting nails or pens can chip tooth edges, wear enamel and damage fillings or crowns.
- The habit also tires the jaw muscles and carries bacteria into the mouth.
- It often happens with stress, boredom or concentration; sugar free gum can be a substitute.
- A chipped edge, jaw pain or a loose filling is a sign to see a dentist.
Why do nail biting and pen chewing harm teeth?
Teeth are made for chewing food, not for biting hard objects. When you bite nails or a pen, the repeated force on one spot can cause tiny chips at the tooth edge, enamel wear and slight shifting of the front teeth over time. Teeth with fillings or crowns are even more likely to come loose or crack. You can also read our article on what to do about a cracked, chipped or broken tooth.
Effects on the jaw and gums
- Constant biting tires the jaw muscles and can cause jaw pain or clicking when chewing.
- Nails and pen ends carry bacteria, which can cause infection around the nail and carry germs into the mouth.
- A sharp piece of nail can scratch the gum.
See also our article on jaw pain and clicking when chewing or opening the mouth.
Why do many people do it?
- Stress, worry or boredom.
- A habit from childhood that happens without noticing.
- Moments of concentration while working or studying.
How to break the habit
- Notice when you tend to bite and replace it with another action, such as holding a soft object in your hand.
- Keep your nails short and neat so there is less to bite.
- Use sugar free gum when you feel the urge to chew.
- Practise slow breathing to ease stress. If the habit is hard to stop, you can talk to a doctor or a counsellor.
When should you see a dentist?
If you notice a chipped tooth edge, teeth that no longer meet evenly, jaw pain or a loose filling, please be examined. You can also read about everyday habits that quietly harm your teeth. You are welcome to walk in during opening hours at Nha Khoa Kỳ Hòa, 266A - 268, 3 Tháng 2 Street, Hòa Hưng Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 (Zalo 082.299.3377) to ask about quieter time slots.
Frequently asked questions
Can nail biting damage the front teeth?
It can. Repeated biting can chip the edge of the front teeth and wear the enamel, especially when the force is strong or continues for years.
What other harm does pen chewing cause?
Besides the teeth, it tires the jaw muscles, carries bacteria into the mouth and can damage fillings or crowns.
What should I do if my child bites their nails?
Gently remind them, keep their nails short, and find out whether they feel stressed. If the habit continues, you can ask a doctor.