Dentist names common bad habit that can ‘make us look older’

Millions of Britons occasionally or habitually bite their nails, a practice often linked to stress, anxiety and even boredom. 

And while some may see it as a relatively harmless habit, it can create dental issues that can make you appear older than you actually are. 

Dr Tony Taunk of dental solutions experts Implant Perfection said: “Lots of people bite their nails and it’s an incredibly common habit, but many of them won’t realise the long-term damage it can do.  

“The pressure of biting down on the nail can damage the front teeth, wearing down its enamel and leading to misalignment and gaps over time.  

“It is also linked to teeth-grinding, which wears down teeth and can contribute to headaches and jaw problems. 

“Older people tend to have more worn-down teeth thanks to decades of chewing and biting while younger people don’t tend to have the same level of natural wear and tear. 

“Another natural effect of getting older is our teeth tend to get more discoloured thanks to years of enamel thinning and more exposure of dentin, the yellowish tissue that’s at the core of teeth. 

“Nail biting can certainly accelerate enamel damage, leading to a smile that looks older than it is.” 

Nail biting, otherwise known as onychophagia, is often referred to as an impulse control problem, a behavioural condition which makes it difficult to resist an urge or temptation. 

Many people do it without thinking, and stress is considered one of the most significant causes. 

It can also be a frustrating habit to have, given the health problems it is linked to, as well as a potentially negative perception of a person’s appearance. 

Dr Taunk added: “Our smiles are one of the key features people notice about us, and even the smallest issue can make a difference to our appearance. 

“As we get older, our gums naturally recede and this can cause the tooth’s root to be more visible when we smile.  

“Nail biting can accelerate enamel damage, natural wear and tear and receding gums, so it’s certainly an everyday habit that can make us look older.” 

“Aside from the appearance aspect, biting our nails can also lead to serious illnesses and, of course, long-term damage to the nail.  

“Bacteria gets transferred from the fingertips and nails to the mouth, and this heightens the risk of issues such as stomach bugs, colds and salmonella.” 

Implant Perfection is one of the UK’s leading specialists in dental implant solutions, combining precision, innovation and experience to achieve a healthier smile.