How often do you actually swap out your night guard?

I get a little paranoid about germs, so I was convinced I’d need a new one after a year. But my dentist basically laughed and said, “If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.” I still can’t help but check mine all the time for cracks. It’s a little gross-looking now, but I soak it in denture cleaner every couple weeks and that seems to help. Honestly, the price for a new one is just wild... I’d rather deal with a few scratches than shell out for another.

Honestly, the price for a new one is just wild... I’d rather deal with a few scratches than shell out for another.

Totally get where you’re coming from. The cost is ridiculous for what’s basically a chunk of plastic. I’m the same way with checking for cracks or weird smells - kind of obsessive, honestly. My dentist also said it’s fine as long as there aren’t big cracks or rough edges. I use denture cleaner tablets too and they seem to keep it fresh enough. Not pretty, but it does the job.

Honestly, I relate to being a little paranoid about cracks or weird smells. The price tag for a replacement is just hard to justify unless something’s really wrong. My dentist said the same - minor scratches aren’t a big deal, but anything sharp or broken is a different story. Denture tablets have worked for me too, and I’m not too fussed about the looks as long as it’s clean. It’s reassuring to hear others are in the same boat... makes me feel less weird about hanging onto mine for so long.

- Totally get being cautious about cracks or weird smells.
- I’ve only swapped mine once in three years... felt guilty but it still worked fine.
- My dentist said as long as it’s not cutting my mouth, it’s okay to keep using.
- Denture tablets are a lifesaver for cleaning - never thought to try those until recently.
- Feels less wasteful to hang onto it unless there’s a real problem, honestly.

felt guilty but it still worked fine. - My dentist said as long as it’s not cutting my mouth, it’s okay to keep using.

I get the “feels less wasteful to hang onto it unless there’s a real problem, honestly,” but I’ve had one get so worn down it stopped fitting right and started messing with my bite. Didn’t even notice at first. Sometimes they look fine but aren’t doing their job anymore. Just something to watch for - especially if you grind a lot.