How gross is biting your fingernails?

Between 20 and 30 percent of Americans bite their nails, according to The Cleveland Clinic. Why? Among other reasons, nail biting “often has a self-soothing quality—in fact, it provides a sense of calm—so people may use it as a coping mechanism.” It’s also common to bite nails while bored or stressed. Whatever the reason, you may be wondering if biting your nails is scientifically gross, so let’s explore its health impacts. (Short answer: 1000xYes, it&rsq