On this occasion, we want to talk to you about a habit that affects both women, men and children and that is scientifically known as onychophagiabut that we all know as the classic habit of biting or biting nails.

A habitual vice linked to stress, tiredness or even boredom, which can begin in childhood and then persist throughout adult life. Although it may seem complicated to control or reduce, it is possible to achieve it.

The reality is that there are some tips that can help you control the anxiety of biting your nails, and with which you can also avoid the classic wounds and other injuries to your fingers or teeth that this habit can cause in the long run. .

Below we detail some of the best ways to control nail biting anxiety. Take note.

Adverse effects of nail biting

Before giving you some tips to control the anxiety of biting your nails, it is important that you also know the physical and health consequences that can be associated with this habit:

Tooth wear: Tooth wear is undoubtedly one of the most common effects of nail biting. The damage, above all, tends to be caused to the upper and lower incisors; these are usually related to a discharge in the enamel or to dental crowding, due to the pressure exerted on the teeth.

Gum injuries: The gingival tissue is especially sensitive to this habit. Not only can we be causing injuries to the gums, but also their retraction.

Alteration in the jaw: Nail biting can also lead to jaw disorders, altering this joint and generating pain.

Halitosis: Another consequence of nail biting due to the transfer of bacteria from the inner area of ​​the nails to the mouth is bad breath or halitosis.

Nail problems: Another of the most common consequences of nail biting is the generation of micro breaks and wear on the nails, which will cause them to grow irregularly.

Bacterial problems: Biting your nails makes it easier for bacteria and fungi to enter your mouth and which may be present on your hands. This can put us at greater risk of suffering from infections, both in the mouth and teeth.

How to control nail biting anxiety?

Willpower is essential: As in any other cessation process, willpower is one of the most important elements and steps to stop biting your nails. To do this, strength and patience will have to become two of your key skills.

Try to identify when you bite your nails: Normally the act of biting nails can be related to stress, tiredness or boredom. If you identify that in your case it may be related to any of these specific moments, then try to avoid them so as not to fall into temptation so easily.

Try at those times to keep your hands busy with something like a simple anti-stress ball that can entertain or relax you and not cause you to put your nails in your mouth.

Avoid stimulating drinks: Drinks such as coffee, tea or caffeinated soft drinks will only increase your anxiety level and if this is one of the triggers for you biting your nails, it is best that you try to avoid them.

Special enamels: In both pharmacies and health food stores you can find special nail polishes with an unpleasant taste that will take away the urge to bite your nails every time you put them in your mouth. By applying this type of transparent nail polish daily you will be able to make onychophagia gradually disappear.

Gloves in winter as allies: In winter, one of those allies that cannot be missing to control the anxiety of biting nails are gloves. This garment will prevent you from putting your fingers in your mouth.

Wash your hands: By putting your hands in your mouth you may be facilitating the entry of harmful organisms and bacteria into the body. This is one of the main reasons why you should make sure you always have clean hands. If every time you feel like biting your nails you try to do this habit of washing your hands, you may finally be able to reduce the urge to bite your nails.

Balance diet: Sometimes the habit of biting nails can be accompanied by nutritional deficiencies such as lack of calcium or magnesium. This is one of the reasons why it is important to maintain a balanced and varied diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

To do physical exercise: Exercise helps combat anxiety situations, so it will always be a good ally to help you reduce that anxiety and thereby reduce your desire to bite your nails.

Chew gum: Keeping your mouth busy chewing sugarless gum is a good way to prevent nail biting. Try to apply it every time anxiety invades you and get used to always having gum with you so as not to fall into temptation.

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