The first time I wore fake nails was for a friend's wedding. They tore up my real, bitten nails underneath. After my nails grew back where they weren't bumpy, I stopped biting them. Fake nails even when professionally done are hell on your natural nails. I haven't had tips done since the early 90's for that reason.
On a different note, what nail length is too long? If you can't open your car door or wipe your own ass they are too long. I saw a lady whose nails were so long, her pinky nail was curling. I find long, talon-like nails gross. Especially when they start to curl. And really long acrylics? Not a fan of those either. Don't take offense ladies if you like them really long, it's just an opinion!