Last updated 09.30.2026
Should you repair or replace a worn night guard?
Learn when a worn night guard may need repair or replacement, which warning signs matter and why fit, damage or pain should be checked.
If your night guard has a hole, crack, rough edge or loose fit, you might be tempted to either put up with it or try fixing it yourself. That's a mistake. It's not recommended that you glue, trim or reshape it at home, since that may change how it fits. A small problem may be fixable, but a badly worn or broken guard may need to be replaced. Bring it to your visit so your dental provider can check the guard, your teeth and your bite.
What you will learn in this article:
Holes, cracks, rough edges and a loose fit are signs that your guard needs a check.
A night guard must fit well to stay in place and protect your teeth.
Home repairs can change the fit, so ask your dental provider before using the guard again.
Your dental provider can tell you whether the guard can be adjusted, repaired or replaced.
If your night guard feels worn, loose or uncomfortable, schedule an appointment with an Aspen Dental provider. Your care team can check it and help you understand your options.
What does a night guard do?
Bruxism happens when you grind or clench your teeth while you are awake or asleep. Many people do not know it is happening. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research explains that a guard creates space between the upper and lower teeth. This can limit tooth damage and may help the jaw muscles work less during grinding or clenching.¹
A night guard works best when it stays in place and fits the way your dental provider intended.
How can you tell your night guard is worn out?
Look at your guard in good light. These changes mean it should be checked:
A hole or thin spot where your teeth press through
A crack, chipped area or rough edge
A loose guard that shifts while you sleep
A guard that no longer fits snugly over your teeth
These changes do not always mean you need a new guard, but your dental provider should inspect it. Jaw pain, tired jaw muscles, headaches and worn teeth can also be signs that grinding is still active.² If these problems return or get worse, tell your dental provider.
Why does a poor fit matter?
A night guard should sit securely over your teeth. If it rocks, slips or changes how your teeth come together, it may not be fitting as intended.
A night guard is not meant to make a lasting change to your bite. If it causes pain, stop wearing it and call your dental provider.³
Can you fix a cracked guard yourself?
Do not glue, trim, heat or reshape a cracked guard at home. A home repair may change the fit or leave a rough edge against your mouth. Bring the guard to your dental provider. They can inspect the damage and tell you whether it can be repaired or replaced.
A store-bought guard may be another option in some cases. Ask your dental provider how a drugstore night guard compares with a custom guard for your needs.
Why might replacement be the better path?
Replacement may be the better choice if the guard has a deep crack or sharp edge, or if it no longer stays in place. A smaller problem may only need an adjustment, but your dental provider needs to inspect the guard to decide.
Your dental provider can look for new wear on your teeth and check whether your jaw muscles feel sore. If needed, they may recommend a new custom guard.²
Pain from a guard also needs attention. Tell your dental provider about any sore spots in your mouth.
What should you ask your dental provider?
Bring your old guard to the visit. Then ask these questions:
Is my guard worn out, or can it be repaired?
Does it still fit my teeth and my bite?
Do I need a new mold or scan?
Is this guard the right type for how I grind?
How will I know when it needs another check?
What should I do if it hurts?
Your dental provider can explain whether the guard should be repaired or replaced and why.
If your guard feels loose, damaged or uncomfortable, reach out to your dental provider to have it checked.
Should you repair or replace a worn night guard? FAQs
Still have questions about night guards? These answers cover a few common concerns.
Should I keep wearing a cracked night guard?
Ask your dental provider before you keep using it. Set the guard aside if it has a sharp edge, no longer fits or causes pain. Bring it to your visit so your dental provider can inspect the damage.
Does drinking coffee or alcohol affect grinding?
Coffee, alcohol, tobacco, stress and certain medicines have all been linked with bruxism.² These factors do not prove that one thing caused your grinding. Tell your dental provider about them so they can look at the full picture.
How do I care for my night guard?
Follow the cleaning and storage directions from your dental provider and the guard’s maker. Ask which cleaner and water temperature are safe because materials can differ. Keep your teeth clean by brushing and flossing, and bring the guard to your dental visits.
When should I have my night guard checked?
Bring it to your regular dental visits. Make an earlier appointment if you see a hole, crack or rough edge, or if the guard becomes loose or painful. Your dental provider can inspect the guard and tell you when it should be replaced.
Sources
¹ National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: “Bruxism.” https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/bruxism
² National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: “Ask The Expert: Bruxism (Tooth Grinding).” https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/bruxism/ask-expert-bruxism-tooth-grinding
³ National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: “TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders).” https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tmd