How often should I change my mouth night guard?

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If you’re in the market for a night guard, you might wonder how often you should change it when you’re done using it. As with many other things, the answer depends on your unique situation, but here are some general guidelines that should work for most people. If your case falls outside these guidelines, make sure to speak with your dentist before changing your nightguard for teeth too often or not often.

Every Six Months

Night guards for teeth are meant to be changed every six months. However, the frequency of this need will depend on the wear and tear of your mouthguard. If you feel it is no longer providing you with the protection it once did, it is time to replace it. The instructions on how to do so are in the next paragraph.

Signs That You May Need to Change Your Night Guard

Damage and Discoloration

Damage to the mouthguard is inevitable, so it’s important to know how often you need to replace your night guard. Every six months to a year is an average period, but if your mouthguard has been used for more than three years, it may be time to switch out. 

The night guard for teeth can also become discolored over time. It will look more yellow or brownish with age and wear and tear from use. Also, you might want to know about the night guard for teeth; it won’t protect against cavities, so even if you have one, we recommend replacing the mouthguard every few months.

Dental Work

Another case requiring you to replace your mouthguard more frequently is if you grind your teeth at night. In this case, the mouthguard can lose shape and become thinner in certain areas. After some time, the mouthguard will not offer as much protection, and it may be time to purchase a new one. 

Losing or breaking your mouthguard is another common reason people need to buy a new one. If you’re unlucky enough to find yourself in this situation, do not worry! Many online retailers offer affordable prices for dental appliances and dental supplies. 

Replacement mouthguards are sold at most pharmacies and grocery stores nowadays, so if you forget yours at home, you won’t have to go without them. You might even want to keep an extra one on hand, just in case.

If your mouth guard is deformed

Deformation of the mouth guard can be due to overuse, improper care, or a combination of both. When this happens, you will need to replace the mouthguard with a new one. When you notice that your mouthguard is not fitting as well in your mouth, start looking for signs that it may be time to replace it. 

Look at the nightguard’s shape and size and ensure it is still in good condition. You will want to pay attention to any deformation on the front and back surface because if there are visible cracks, your dental appliance needs to be replaced. If you see that the fit has changed or is worn out, it is time to invest in a new one.

Conclusion 

Night guards for teeth serve to protect your gums and other parts of your mouth when you sleep. Because night guards do not cover a hundred percent of the possible damage, it is important to frequently replace them to ensure maximum protection from cavities, receding gums, and tooth loss. Removing your old night guard before putting in a new one is important.

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