How to Tell If Your Mouthguard Needs to Be Replaced

There are a few long-term factors to be thinking about when it comes to any mouthguard you use for sports or related activities, and eventual replacement is definitely on this list. How can you know when to replace a mouthguard, and which key signs might be most useful here?

At Damage Control Mouthguards, we're here to offer an extensive range of custom mouthguards across numerous sports and activities, including MMA mouthguards, football mouthguards and more. Here are some of the top signs that it could be time to replace your mouthguard, plus how to interpret each of them.

Trouble Breathing or Speaking

Have you begun to notice that instead of your typical clear speech patterns or easy breathing, you're struggling to do either of these when wearing your mouthguard? This is often a key sign that it's time to replace the guard - it's no longer fitting properly and may be causing more harm than good.

In many cases, this issue signals that the mouthguard has become too worn down or has developed tears or holes. When this happens, the protective qualities of the guard are compromised and it can no longer effectively absorb impacts.

Discomfort

One of the main reasons people stop wearing their mouthguards is because they become uncomfortable to wear. While some level of initial discomfort may be normal as your mouth adjusts to the guard, if you continue to experience discomfort after a few weeks, it may be time for a replacement.

Discomfort can be caused by various factors such as improper fit, sharp edges or rough areas on the guard, or even allergies to certain materials used in making the guard. Regardless of the cause, if your mouthguard is causing discomfort, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible.

Sores or Related Issues

If you've developed sores or ulcers in your mouth while using a mouthguard, it is important to stop using the guard. These issues can be caused by excessive rubbing or friction from an ill-fitting guard, which can lead to further irritation and potential infection.

In some cases, allergic reactions to materials used in making the guard can also result in sores or other related issues. If you suspect that this may be the case for you, consider switching to a different type of mouthguard altogether.

Visible Deformation

In other cases, a mouthguard may become visibly deformed over time. This can happen due to wear and tear, or even from clenching or grinding your teeth while wearing the guard. If you start to notice any significant changes in the shape or structure of your mouthguard, it is important to replace it as soon as possible.

A deformed mouthguard will not only reduce its effectiveness in protecting your teeth and jaw, but it can also cause discomfort and potential injury if it no longer fits properly in your mouth. It is recommended to regularly check your mouthguard for any signs of deformation and replace it when necessary.

Unpleasant Taste or Odor

Mouthguards are designed to be worn for extended periods of time, which can lead to the buildup of bacteria and germs. This can result in an unpleasant taste or odor developing within your mouthguard.

To prevent this, it is important to clean your mouthguard regularly with mild soap and warm water or with a specially designed cleaner. You can also soak your mouthguard in antiseptic mouthwash for a few minutes after use to help eliminate any bacteria.

Color Changes

You may have noticed that your mouthguard has started to change color over time. This is a common occurrence and can be caused by exposure to certain foods or drinks, bacteria buildup, or simply wear and tear.

To prevent discoloration, it is important to clean your mouthguard regularly as mentioned above. Additionally, you should avoid exposing your mouthguard to hot temperatures or leaving it in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.

If your mouthguard has changed color significantly or has developed any unusual spots, it may be time to replace it. Discoloration can indicate the growth of harmful bacteria that cannot be fully removed through cleaning alone.

If any of these issues have come up, or if you're looking into when to replace your mouthguard for any other reason, our team at Damage Control Mouthguards is here to help. Contact us for more information on our custom-fit mouthguards and get the protection you need for your teeth and jaw while playing sports or participating in any physical activity!