Just like most items that you use daily, athletic equipment is subjected to wear and tear. Mouthguards are no exception, and similar to your helmet or shoulder pads, your mouthguard will likely require one or two adjustments every once in a while.
Adjusting your mouthguard may seem a little difficult to do, but with the following simple home remedies, you will be able to make minor changes on your own. These quick fixes will work for all mouth guards such as boil-and-bite and custom-made mouthguards. Whether you need to adjust the tightness of your mouthguard or correct slight tears or rips, we have you covered. This will save you time and effort, preventing the need to send your mouth guard back to the manufacturer.
Now, let’s discuss the three minor issues you may have with your mouthguard and the minor adjustments you can make. Note, that modifications made to your mouthguard should be done carefully. Incorrect alterations could impact the performance and protection of your mouthguard. Also, if you are under the age of 18, adult supervision is recommended.
Your Mouth Guard is Too Tight:
1. Boil water in a pot.
2. If your mouthguard is custom-made, you will want to use tongs and oven mitts to hold the mouthguard over the water for around ten seconds. Avoid placing your mouthguard in the boiling water. You only want to put heat on the area that is causing discomfort.
3. If your mouthguard is one that you boil, then bite to mould to your teeth. You will want to use tongs and oven mitts to place the mouthguard area that is uncomfortable in the water for around ten seconds.
4. Remove the mouthguard from the boiling water and place it in your mouth immediately.
5. Next, place the mouthguard in your mouth for approximately twenty seconds and apply constant pressure. To improve the fit, repeat this process as many times as necessary.
There is Slight Abrasion (a rip or tear)
Is there a slight abrasion, rip or tear in the mouth guard that is causing you to experience discomfort? Follow these steps below.
1. Find a smooth metal surface, preferably a spoon.
2. Heat the metal.
3. Apply a dab of an edible lubricant such as cooking oil.
4. Carefully smooth out the rough area of the mouthguard using the metal surface. The heated metal will allow you to adjust the shape or smooth the mouth guard; meanwhile, the lubricant creates a barrier between the metal surface and mouth guard, so the metal does not stick to the mouth guard or pull the material.
Visit your dental clinic in Prince Albert, if the rip or tear in the mouth guard worsens or continues to cause you discomfort.
There is Extra Material
Is there extra material where it does not belong or a small area of your mouthguard that causes you discomfort? Follow these steps below.
1. Heat a small utility knife.
2. Gently shave off the problem area.
3. Avoid accidentally puncturing the mouth guard or cutting the material.
Looking for a mouthguard? Visit your dentist near you for a custom-fit mouthguard.