Nail biting is a serious problem which can cause scarring, as well as bacterial and fungal infections. Regular trimming with clippers should leave a healthy amount of nail over the vulnerable nail bed. However, biting the finger or toenail can result in exposure of the flesh underneath. This exposed skin cannot fight off infections nearly as effectively as a healthy digit.
Think of your fingernails and toenails as armor that protects your tender nailbed from infection. ANY chink in that armor can let in a foreign organism in. Once a fungal infection sets in, it is extremely difficult to get rid of. Over-the-counter and prescription treatments can be effective. However, even with a successful treatment, recurrence incidence is high. So, if you already have an infection, do not bite your nails and avoid traumatizing your nails at all costs. If you don't have nail fungus yet, avoid it at all costs! An important part of that is: Don't bite your nails!
