Plenty of people bite their nails as a nervous habit. Unfortunately, this habit can have long-lasting effects, including making your teeth completely crooked. If you're still struggling with this habit and are disappointed by the appearance of your smile, the good news is there's something you can do about both. Here's why you should consider invisible braces for your situation.

Standard Braces

To be fair, standard metal braces are a good choice. This type of braces is unparalleled in straightening teeth and correcting bite problems, and if you need extreme correction, it's where you should go. However, if your only issue is that your teeth are crooked, it might not be your best solution.

This is because while you're wearing the braces, you still might be tempted to bite your nails. While the braces will hold your teeth in place enough to keep them from continuing to move in the wrong direction, you could slow down your treatment, resulting in needing to wear braces for longer.

Invisible Braces

Invisible braces are a great choice, and even a better one for your particular situation. This is because they do a great job of correcting the alignment of crooked teeth, all with the added benefits of being able to take them off when it comes time to care for your teeth.

However, the most important aspect of invisible braces for you is that they will help to prevent you from biting your nails. Invisible braces are like a thin layer of plastic that covers the backs, fronts, and edges of your teeth. Without the sharp biting surface of your teeth accessible, you won't be able to bite through your fingernails. This will ensure that you don't do more damage to your teeth while also helping you to break the habit over a long period of time.

What to Expect

If you're interested in invisible braces, your first stop is an orthodontist's office. Your new dentist will be able to perform a scan of your teeth and mouth to determine what corrections you need. They may show you a digital recreation of what your adjustment will be like.

Once everything's decided, your dentist will take a mold of your upper and lower teeth and send them, along with instructions, to an invisible braces manufacturer. They will produce a series of invisible braces that you'll gradually progress through as your alignment improves.

The time you'll spend wearing invisible braces depends upon how badly crooked your teeth have become. During that time, you'll be unable to bite your nails, so focus on making that a long-term habit and find another way to relieve your stress. For more information, contact orthodontists like those at Reed & Sahlaney Orthodontics, LLP.