How Often Should You Replace Your Mouth Guard?

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Replace Your Mouth Guard

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While a mouth guard is essential to protect your teeth against any harmful forces, how do you know that it is high time that you changed your mouth guard so that it can fit you right and provide the necessary protection?

Whether you use a sports mouth guard, a night guard for teeth grinding, or a custom-made mouth guard, it is crucial to know the average lifespan of these guards to have the most comfort and protection.

Below is a guide that aims to help you learn about the frequency of replacing the mouth guards and the signs that you should look for so that your smile is protected and your guards are well-maintained at all times.

Why Is Mouth Guard Replacement Important?

Mouth guards, whether for sports or night use, undergo wear and tear over time. An old mouth guard can provide less protection, cause discomfort, and lead to bacterial buildup due to inadequate hygiene. Replacing it on time ensures that your teeth are protected and your general oral health is not compromised.

Key Risks of Using a Worn-Out Mouth Guard

  • Reduced Protection: A damaged mouth guard could also not provide that shock absorber for your teeth during impacts.
  • Hygiene Concerns: Openings such as cracks or grooves may hold bacteria that cause smell or possibly an infection.
  • Uncomfortable Fit: A worn guard may not fit tightly against the teeth, leading to irritation.

How Often to Replace a Mouth Guard?

The indications that you should change your mouthguard depending on its type are covered below:

Types of Mouth Guard Recommended Replacement Frequency Signs You Need to Replace
Sports Mouth Guard Every 6-12 months Cracks, loose fit, or significant wear
Night Guard for Teeth Grinding Every 1-2 years Excessive wear, or discomfort
Custom Mouth Guard Every 1-3 years Visible damage, discomfort, or misfit
Over-the-Counter Mouth Guard Every 6-12 months Cracks, discoloration, or reduced protection

Signs Your Mouth Guard Needs Replacing

Here are common signs it’s time for a new one:

1. Visible Damage

When a mouth guard develops cracks, tears, or holes, it loses its ability to protect your teeth effectively. Even minor damage can significantly reduce its efficiency.

2. Discomfort or Poor Fit

When your mouth guard becomes loose, tight, or causes irritation, it may no longer fit properly and should be replaced. Broken, chipped, or shifted teeth, or any changes in your jawbone may also require a new mouth guard.

3. Discoloration or Odor

Another sign that it’s time to replace your mouth guard is the yellowing or a pleasant bad smell, even after cleaning. This indicates bacterial buildup leading to a further decline in its efficiency.

4. Loss of Cushioning

Over time, mouth guards wear out and lose their ability to absorb shock effectively. If it no longer feels fit and protective, it’s time to replace it.

Change Your Mouth Guard If Your Bite Has Changed

Whenever you find that your bite has changed, then it’s high time to buy a new mouth guard. Changes in the position of your teeth may also affect the fit and effectiveness of the mouth guard, causing discomfort during use. It is always recommended to visit your dentist to assess these changes and determine whether your mouth guard is still suitable for use.

How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Mouth Guard?

Mouth guards have to be replaced more often, but with proper care, the durable lifespan of a mouth guard can be extended. Follow these best practices for maintaining your mouth guards:

1. Clean It Daily

After use, clean your mouth guard with warm water and gently scrub it with a soft toothbrush with mild soap. For thorough cleaning, use denture cleaning tablets.

2. Store It Properly

It is always advisable to store the mouth guard in a ventilated case to minimize bacteria and mold formation. Do not expose it to direct sunlight or heat, as this can warp the material.

3. Avoid Biting or Chewing

Chewing on your mouth guard can cause cracks and shorten its lifespan. Handle it with care to extend its durability.

4. Schedule Regular Check-Ups

Make sure to carry your mouth guard to your dental check-up appointments regularly. They can inspect for abrasive signs and suggest replacement when necessary.

What Happens If You Don’t Replace Your Mouth Guard?

Delaying mouth guard replacement can have serious consequences, including:

  • Increased Risk of Dental Injuries: A damaged guard will not safeguard your teeth from sports contact.
  • Hygiene Issue: Bacterial growth may cause infections, gum diseases, or tooth decay.
  • Oral Discomfort: A poorly fitting mouth guard can lead to discomfort and cause pain in the jaw as well as sores or sensitive teeth.

Don’t risk your oral health!
Worn-out mouth guards can lose their effectiveness. For the best protection, replace yours regularly.
Contact Smilepath today for a consultation!

Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Mouth Guards: Which Lasts Longer?

When choosing a mouth guard, you’ll come across two main options: custom-made and over-the-counter. Here is a comparative analysis of how they differ in terms of durability and replacement frequency.

Features Custom-made Mouth Guard Over-the-counter Mouth Guard
Life Span 1-3 years 6-12 months
Fit Perfectly tailored to your teeth One-size fit may require adjustments
Comfort Higher level of comfort Moderate to low
Cost Higher upfront cost Affordable
Usage Recommendation Ideal for athletes and bruxism Best for light or occasional use
Replacement Frequency Less frequent (1-3 years) More frequent (6-12 months)

Changing your mouth guard as often as the manufacturer recommends is an important step towards getting the right level of protection and comfort. A Smilepath mouth guard varies depending on whether it is for sports, grinding, or orthodontic needs. In sports, it should be replaced every 6-12 months; in night use, 1-2 years; and for custom-made mouth guards, 1-3 years. Periodic replacements contribute to cleanliness, superior cushioning, and optimal shielding for your teeth. This way you will know when to replace it since it always shows signs like wear, discoloration, or discomfort.

FAQs

Q: How do you know when you need a new mouth guard?

A: You intend to get a new one if it has signs such as cracks, tears, or discoloration, or if it feels loose or discomfort in your mouth.

Q: How long do dental mouth guards last?

A: Customized dental mouth guards can be used for as short as 6 months to three years depending on the type used and the extent of their usage.

Q: How often should you replace mouth guards?

A: Sports guards should be replaced every 6-12 months, and night guards or custom-made guards should be replaced every 1-2 years.

Q: How many times can I boil a mouth guard?

A: Boiling a mouth guard should ideally be done only once or twice since continued boiling tends to compromise the material’s rigidity and cause it to slip out of place.

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