Are you a nail biter? Aside from ragged, bitten nails looking unattractive, nail biting can also affect your health. When you bite your nails, you transfer bacteria from your fingers to your mouth. Gross. Even worse, you can permanently damage your nails, teeth and gums. It’s not a healthy habit. So why do people do it?

Some do it because of stress. Some out of boredom. And for many, it’s a way to ease anxiety. Frustration and loneliness can trigger it, too. Some research suggests genes may play a role.

So how can you stop your nail biting habit?

 If you’ve been biting your nails since childhood, you may want to follow these tips to stop the habit:

• Purchase bitter-tasting nail biting polish. The unpleasant taste may discourage you from biting. Regular clear polish can work, too. And, you can put these polishes on children’s nails as well.

• Keep your nails very short. It’s less nail for you to bite!

• Get a mani on the regular. The time and expense you’re putting in to keep your nails looking attractive may deter you from biting them.

• When you feel stressed, find other ways to handle it. Techniques like deep breathing and meditation can help relax you, or even something as small as squeezing a stress ball.

• Wear a rubber band around your wrist. Why? You can snap it whenever you get the urge to bite your nails. Apparently the distraction works!

• Wear band-aids on the tips of your fingers. It may look strange, but your nails won't be accessible to bite. You can wear them long enough to break the habit.

Keep your nails, teeth and gums from becoming damaged by your nail biting—stop the habit ASAP! If fingernail biting persists, along with anxiety and stress, talk with your doctor about how to address it. And always make sure to keep bacteria out of your mouth by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily and choosing a dental insurance plan that covers regular dental cleanings, exams and other preventative care options.