{"id":38,"date":"2021-03-02T16:04:00","date_gmt":"2021-03-02T16:04:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.washparkpediatricdentistry.com\/blog\/?p=38"},"modified":"2025-06-13T19:55:56","modified_gmt":"2025-06-13T19:55:56","slug":"nail-biting-and-how-it-can-harm-your-childs-oral-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.washparkpediatricdentistry.com\/blog\/2021\/03\/02\/nail-biting-and-how-it-can-harm-your-childs-oral-health\/","title":{"rendered":"How Your Child\u2019s Nail-Biting Can Negatively Impact Their Oral Health"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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If your child chews on their nails, they are far from the only one. According to C.S. Mott Children\u2019s Hospital in Michigan, it is estimated that nearly 50% of children between the ages of 10 and 18 bite their nails. Commonly practiced unintentionally when bored or needing comfort, this little habit can have some unpleasant effects for children. For instance it can permanently impact the appearance of their nails and hands, potentially leading to embarrassment. However, did you know that nail-biting<\/a> can also harm a child\u2019s oral health? Keep reading to learn why it\u2019s best to curb this bad habit before it causes serious damage to their teeth and gums.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Nail-Biting and Your Child\u2019s Smile: What You Need to Know<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When determining how just damaging nail-biting can be, it\u2019s important to remember that the outer layer of your child\u2019s teeth, the enamel, is designed to protect. Known for its strength and durability, it is unfortunately not indestructible and can be worn down over time. While regular wear and tear are normal, aggressive nail-biting can speed up the process, causing significant problems to develop, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n