Which term describes the procedure of filing the nail sides to prevent ingrown nails?

The procedure of filing the nail sides to prevent ingrown nails is best described as shaping. Shaping involves carefully filing the edges of the nail to smooth out any rough areas and create a contour that helps the nails grow properly. This action not only enhances the aesthetic appearance of the nails but also plays a crucial role in preventative care by reducing the risk of the nails growing into the surrounding skin, which can lead to discomfort and potential infections.

Debridement refers primarily to the removal of dead or infected tissue, typically not just limited to nails and is more associated with wound care. Filing is a broader term that could refer to any action involving the use of a file on nails but lacks the specificity of shaping that indicates a detailed approach to prevent ingrown nails. Cutting, on the other hand, suggests a more invasive action that could change the length of the nail rather than merely refining its shape. Thus, shaping is the most accurate term for what is intended in this context.