Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Custom Mouthguard
A custom mouthguard is an essential piece of equipment, whether you’re protecting your teeth during sports, managing teeth grinding (bruxism), or safeguarding dental work while you sleep. While custom mouthguards are designed to be durable and comfortable, they don’t last forever. Over time, even the best mouthguards wear out, lose their shape, or become less effective.
So, how do you know when it’s time to replace your custom mouthguard? In this guide, we’ll highlight the key signs to look out for and explain why timely replacement is important for your dental health.
Why Replacing Your Custom Mouthguard Matters
A well-fitting mouthguard doesn’t just protect your teeth—it also reduces the risk of injuries to your gums, jaw, and even your neck. However, when a mouthguard starts to wear out, it can no longer provide the same level of protection. Ignoring the signs of wear can lead to:
Increased risk of dental injuries during sports or physical activities.
Ineffective protection against teeth grinding, leading to jaw pain or tooth damage.
Discomfort, irritation, or difficulty breathing while wearing the mouthguard.
Replacing your mouthguard when needed ensures continued protection, comfort, and peace of mind.
1. Visible Signs of Wear and Tear
One of the most obvious signs that it’s time to replace your custom mouthguard is visible damage.
What to Look For:
Cracks or tears in the material.
Holes or thinning areas, especially where your teeth make contact.
Rough or jagged edges that could irritate your gums or cheeks.
Why It Matters:
A damaged mouthguard won’t provide adequate protection and may even cause discomfort or injuries. If you notice any visible signs of wear, it’s time to consider a replacement.
2. Changes in Fit or Comfort
A custom mouthguard is designed to fit your mouth perfectly, but over time, it can lose its shape due to regular use, exposure to heat, or natural changes in your mouth.
What to Look For:
The mouthguard feels loose or slips out of place.
It feels tight or uncomfortable, causing pressure on your teeth or gums.
Difficulty speaking or breathing while wearing the mouthguard.
Why It Matters:
A poorly fitting mouthguard can be ineffective or even harmful. It may not stay in place during physical activity or protect your teeth properly from grinding or impacts. If your mouthguard no longer fits comfortably, it’s time to replace it.
3. Discolouration or Bad Odours
Over time, mouthguards can develop stains or odours, even with proper cleaning. This can be a sign of bacterial buildup, which could pose a risk to your oral health.
What to Look For:
Yellowing or dark stains that don’t come off with cleaning.
Persistent bad odours, even after soaking or brushing.
A slimy or sticky feeling when handling the mouthguard.
Why It Matters:
Discolouration and bad smells are often signs of bacteria or mould, which can cause infections or irritate your gums. Replacing your mouthguard when it becomes difficult to clean is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene.
4. Damage from Teeth Grinding
If you wear a mouthguard for bruxism (teeth grinding), it can wear down faster due to the constant pressure and friction.
What to Look For:
Deep grooves or indentations from your teeth.
Flattened areas where the material has worn away.
Increased jaw pain or headaches, indicating reduced effectiveness.
Why It Matters:
A worn-down mouthguard won’t protect your teeth or jaw from grinding as effectively. If you notice signs of wear from bruxism, it’s time to get a new custom mouthguard to prevent further damage to your teeth.
5. Difficulty Cleaning or Maintaining the Mouthguard
A mouthguard should be easy to clean and maintain. If you find that it’s becoming harder to keep your mouthguard fresh and hygienic, it might be time to replace it.
What to Look For:
Build-up of plaque or tartar that doesn’t come off with regular cleaning.
A rough or sticky surface that traps bacteria.
The mouthguard looks cloudy or dull, even after cleaning.
Why It Matters:
A mouthguard that’s difficult to clean can harbour bacteria, increasing the risk of infections or bad breath. Replacing it ensures you’re wearing a clean, hygienic mouthguard that protects both your teeth and gums.
6. Changes in Your Teeth or Dental Work
If you’ve had dental work done since getting your custom mouthguard—such as fillings, crowns, braces, or extractions—it’s likely your mouthguard will no longer fit properly.
What to Look For:
The mouthguard feels tight or uncomfortable around new dental work.
It doesn’t sit evenly on your teeth or causes irritation.
Difficulty keeping the mouthguard in place due to changes in your bite.
Why It Matters:
A custom mouthguard is moulded to fit your teeth exactly. Any changes in your dental structure mean you’ll need a new mouthguard to ensure proper fit and protection.
7. You’ve Had the Mouthguard for Over a Year
Even if your mouthguard looks fine, it’s a good idea to replace it regularly, especially if you use it frequently.
What to Look For:
General wear from regular use, even if there’s no visible damage.
Changes in comfort or fit over time.
Reduced effectiveness in preventing teeth grinding or protecting during sports.
Why It Matters:
Most custom mouthguards are designed to last about a year with regular use. If it’s been over 12 months since you got yours, it’s worth considering a replacement to maintain optimal protection.
Protect Your Smile with a New Custom Mouthguard
At Denture Haus, we specialise in crafting high-quality custom mouthguards tailored to your exact needs. Whether you need a replacement or a brand-new mouthguard, our expert team is here to help.
Ready for a new custom mouthguard? Contact Denture Haus today to schedule a consultation and get the perfect fit for ultimate protection and comfort!