Nail biting, also known as onychophagia, is a common habit involving biting one’s fingernails and/or toenails. While it is often considered a harmless habit, nail biting can lead to a range of negative consequences, including damage to the teeth, gums, and nails themselves. It can also be a sign of an underlying anxiety disorder.
There are a number of reasons why people bite their nails. Some people do it out of boredom, while others do it as a way to relieve stress or anxiety. For some people, nail biting is a way to self-soothe. Whatever the reason, nail biting can be a difficult habit to break. However, there are a number of strategies that can be helpful in overcoming this habit.