Sometimes they look fine but aren’t doing their job anymore.
Totally get where you’re coming from. I’m always tempted to stretch mine out as long as possible—those things aren’t cheap. But I had one that looked okay and then realized it was barely staying in at night... My jaw started feeling weird, and that’s when I caved and replaced it. If it still fits well and isn’t rough, I say keep using it, but yeah, gotta watch for those subtle changes.
That’s the tricky part, right? Mine always LOOK fine until I notice they’re not fitting as snug or I wake up with a sore jaw. How do you tell if it’s worn out—like, do you just go by feel, or is there a trick to spotting issues early?
How do you tell if it’s worn out—like, do you just go by feel, or is there a trick to spotting issues early?
I mostly go by feel, honestly. If it’s not hugging my teeth right or I start waking up with jaw pain again, that’s my sign. Sometimes I’ll notice tiny cracks or rough spots, but usually it’s the fit first. Anyone else’s get weirdly yellow even with cleaning, or is that just me?
If it’s not hugging my teeth right or I start waking up with jaw pain again, that’s my sign.
That’s exactly how I know it’s time. Trust your instincts—if it feels off or you’re waking up sore, don’t second-guess yourself. As for the yellowing, you’re not alone... mine does that too, no matter how careful I am. It’s frustrating, but honestly, a little discoloration doesn’t mean it’s not working. The fit is what really matters.
The fit is what really matters.
That makes sense, but I always wonder if there’s some kind of “expiration date” on these things. Like, even if the fit feels okay, could it be getting too worn down to protect my teeth? Mine gets those little bite marks after a few months. Is that normal wear and tear, or should I be worried about replacing it sooner?
