The frequency of night guard replacement may vary depending on factors such as the individual's oral health, the quality and durability of the night guard, and the dentist's or healthcare professional's recommendations.

There are many reasons most professionals would suggest changing your night guard every six months:

1. Wear and tear: Night guards are subjected to regular grinding forces and can gradually wear down or become damaged over time. Replacing the night guard every six months ensures that it remains in good condition, maintains its effectiveness, and provides adequate protection for your teeth.
2. Hygiene and cleanliness: Regularly replacing your night guard helps maintain proper oral hygiene. Over time, bacteria, plaque, and debris can accumulate on the night guard's surface, increasing the risk of oral infections or bad breath. By replacing the night guard periodically, you reduce the buildup of these potentially harmful substances.
3. Proper fit and comfort: Night guards are custom-made to fit an individual's mouth. However, teeth alignment or jaw structure changes can occur over time. Replacing the night guard every six months allows adjustments to accommodate these changes, ensuring a proper fit and optimal comfort.
4. Improved efficacy: Nightguards for bruxism work by placing a resistant barrier between the upper and lower teeth, absorbing the forces of grinding and clenching. However, the material properties of a night guard may degrade over time, diminishing its ability to absorb those forces. By replacing the night guard regularly, you can ensure its optimal performance in reducing the negative impact of bruxism on your teeth and jaw.