How long do dental night guards last?
Originally published April 23, 2021 · Updated August 2025 for accuracy and freshness.
Most custom dental night guards last 6 months to 5+ years, depending on the material, thickness, and how well they’re cared for. Soft guards wear out fastest (about 6 months–2 years), while durable hard acrylic-like copolyester guards can last 5 years or longer. Dual laminated (hybrid) guards fall in between, with an average lifespan of 1–3 years.
In this article, we’ll break down night guard lifespan by type, the key factors that affect durability, and how to make yours last as long as possible.
👉 Link here: “This article is part of our Complete Guide to Custom Night Guards, where we cover costs, types, TMJ relief, and more.”
| Type of Night Guard | Average Lifespan | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Soft | 6 months – 2 years | Light clenching, occasional grinding |
| Dual Laminated | 1 – 3 years | Moderate grinding |
| Hard Acrylic-Like Copolyester | 2 – 5+ years | Heavy grinding, severe bruxism |
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Soft Guards: Made of a flexible material, they’re comfortable and great for light grinders, but wear down faster.
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Dual Laminated Guards: These combine a soft inner layer with a hard outer shell for balanced comfort and strength. Expect 1–3 years of use.
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Hard Acrylic-Like Copolyester: Crafted from rigid, dental-grade plastic, these are the most durable option. When 2mm or thicker, they often last 5+ years even under heavy grinding.
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💡 Pro Tip: If you choose a thinner style in any of these categories, you gain comfort but may sacrifice longevity depending on grinding severity.
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Factors That Affect Longevity
While material type matters most, several other factors determine how long your night guard will last:
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Grinding severity: Heavy grinders naturally wear through guards faster than light clenchers.
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Thickness: A 3mm guard typically lasts longer than a thinner 1mm or 2mm style.
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Material quality: Custom lab-made guards are crafted from higher-grade dental plastics than OTC boil-and-bite guards from the drugstore.
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Age and dental changes: Children and teens often need replacements more frequently due to tooth movement and growth.
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Bite alignment: If your bite changes from dental work, orthodontics, or tooth shifting, your guard may no longer fit properly.
👉 Related: Custom Night Guard vs. Walmart Night Guard
How to Make Your Night Guard Last Longer
Proper care and cleaning play a huge role in longevity. Even the best guard can break down early if it’s not maintained correctly. Here’s how to extend its life:
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Avoid hot water: Rinsing in hot water can warp the plastic and ruin the fit. Always use cool or lukewarm water.
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Don’t eat or drink with it: Food particles and acidic drinks can stain or weaken the material.
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Daily cleaning: Rinse after each use and gently brush with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Toothpaste is often too abrasive.
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Weekly deep cleaning: Soak in a specialized mouth guard cleaner or use an Ultrasonic UV Cleaner for a thorough sanitization.
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Proper storage: Keep it dry in a ventilated case, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
👉 Related: How to Clean Your Night Guard: The Complete Guide
By following these steps, you can double or even triple your guard’s lifespan compared to poor maintenance habits.
When to Replace Your Night Guard
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research notes that a worn or ill-fitting guard should be replaced to avoid complications.
Even with the best care, night guards eventually wear out. Here are signs it’s time to replace yours:
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Visible cracks, holes, or warping.
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Guard feels loose or too tight due to dental changes.
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Noticeable discoloration or persistent odor, even after cleaning.
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Increased jaw pain or headaches, which may indicate reduced effectiveness.
Learn more: My Night Guard Broke. What Do I Do?
👉 Related: What Should a Properly Fitting Night Guard Feel Like?
Conclusion
If you notice any of these issues, don’t wait — wearing a worn-out guard can leave your teeth unprotected and lead to costly dental repairs.
A custom night guard is an investment in your dental health, and with the right choice and proper care, it can protect your teeth for years. On average, expect anywhere from 6 months to 5+ years of use depending on type, thickness, and habits.
💚 If your current guard is wearing thin or no longer fits, it’s time to replace it with a professional, custom-fit option. Since 2012, Sentinel Mouthguards has crafted thousands of guards in our FDA-registered U.S. dental lab — at a fraction of the dentist’s price.