5 Signs It Is Time to Replace Your Teeth Grinding Guard

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can be pretty harmful to your teeth. This is why teeth-grinding guards are worn by many individuals across the globe to safeguard the teeth throughout the night, also known as night guards. However, just like any other product, teeth-grinding guards do not last a lifetime. They get worn out, become ineffective, or cease to provide comfort in their proper fitting. In this guide, you’ll discover 5 signs that indicate it’s time to replace your teeth-grinding guard and when to consider purchasing a new one.

1. Visible Wear and Tear on the Teeth Grinding Guard

Even the best teeth-grinding guards will eventually wear out, regardless of their high-quality design and durability. Over time, the night guard’s material can wear down due to the constant pressure exerted by teeth grinding. These may start to show signs of tearing, cracking, or even develop small indentations on the surface. When any of these signs show, they cannot protect you as a safeguard as before.

Teeth clenching can exert a lot of pressure on a guard, and it may lose its effectiveness if the material wears out. However, if the night guard has worn out, it is high time to get a new teeth-grinding guard, as this one will no longer be helpful. Eliminate the risk that bruxism can lead to tooth wear , sensitivity, or cracked teeth; continuing to use a worn-down guard may not be sure anymore.

2. Your Teeth Grinding Guard No Longer Fits Properly

Your teeth-grinding guard should fit your mouth and teeth well. If your night guard has become loose, uncomfortable, or difficult to wear, it has likely reached the end of its lifespan and should be replaced. An improperly fitting night guard will not stay put at night, and it may twist and turn in your mouth, causing more pain or major tooth problems.

Using a night guard that does not fit properly can also result in jaw pain, gum inflammation, and poor sleep quality. It is important that a teeth-grinding guard covers the teeth and fits precisely, ensuring comfort in the mouth.

3. Your Teeth Grinding Guard Has an Unpleasant Odor

At times, germs can accumulate on the most professional night guards and can cause an unpleasant smell. If your teeth grinding guard has started to emit an odor even after regular cleaning, it might be a sign of bacteria buildup that can’t be removed. This odor can be stubborn, especially if you wear the night guard every night. It is a sign that the material is no longer in the best condition, especially for hygienic purposes.

A fresh and clean teeth-grinding guard is essential for maintaining oral health. If rubbing doesn't help, it's best to replace it to prevent bacterial growth and unpleasant breath.

4. You Experience More Jaw Pain or Discomfort

If you are experiencing sharp jaw pain, headaches, or muscle soreness each time you wake up, your night guard is not as effective as before. Even if the teeth grinding guard looks good, it may no longer give the right protection to your teeth. This discomfort is a sign that your teeth-grinding guard may have changed its original shape or size.

You do not want to wait for the pain to become chronic—if your teeth grinding guard is not reducing pressure from your grinding, a night guard should be replaced with one that offers better support. A new guard can help restore the balance in your mouth and prevent further pain.

5. You’ve Had the Same Guard for Over a Year

The durability of high-quality teeth grinding guards ranges from 1 to 2 years depending on how well they are used. If this night guard has been used for more than a year, it may not be as effective as before. Its ability will deteriorate gradually as time passes by, and it can also come into contact with bacteria.

Ideally, night guards should be replaced as often as conventional guards, which is usually after about one year’s usage. If you have had your guard for a year or more, then it is time to purchase the next one. Delaying a visit to the dental practitioner may cause significant harm to your teeth and jaw and give you relief from discomfort.

What Type of Teeth Grinding Guard Should You Choose?

When replacing your teeth-grinding guard, you must identify the right choice. Teeth bruxism guards come in various types and unique characteristics, depending on the circumstances of each patient.

Why You Shouldn’t Delay Replacing Your Teeth Grinding Guard

If you have seen any of the signs as discussed above, do not wait to replace your night guard. Using an old or ineffective night guard can lead to a variety of dental issues, such as:

• Daily grinding causes wear of the tooth enamel
• TMJ pressure causes jaw and neck pain
• Chronic headaches caused by tension of muscles in the jawline
• Damage to the teeth may require an expensive process

Looking for the Best Night Guard? Try ALIGNERCO's Night Guard!

If any of these signs are familiar, it might be the right time to get a new teeth-grinding guard. The ALIGNERCO Night Guard is one of the best night guards on the market, which is long-lasting and has the best protection. It is specifically tailored, made for luxury, and is ideal for teeth clenching or bruxism.

Why Choose ALIGNERCO?

• Custom Fit

  Designed to fit your teeth perfectly and provide the highest levels of comfort and coverage.

• Easy Ordering

  Easy and comfortable doing impressions from the comfort of your home.

• Comfortable

  An ideal blend of safety and comfort for a better night’s sleep.

Change your teeth grinding guard after signs of wear or discomfort are visible to allow fresh usage to continue. Eventually, even the most effective night guards may degrade and no longer provide the proper protection from jaw pain, tooth damage, or even restful sleep. If you’ve noticed any of the 5 signs we’ve discussed, such as visible wear, loss of fit, unpleasant odor, or discomfort, it’s time to consider getting a replacement.

The ALIGNERCO Night Guard is one that has been designed to fit the gums without causing any discomfort, and it will continue to help you deal with bruxism and other such issues. Don't wait until the damage becomes worse—act now to protect your smile and get a restful night's sleep.