Testing Mouthguard Fit: Comfort, Bite Changes, Future Themes

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some basics on how to determine proper fit and comfort for a new athletic mouthguard. You can purchase the best mouthguard in the world for whatever sport you play, but it will not provide you with the proper protection and care unless it fits properly and is comfortable for you – and these are huge factors for anyone purchasing a mouthguard.

At Damage Control Mouthguards, we’re happy to offer a wide range of custom mouthguards for numerous sports, from MMA and Muay Thai mouthguards to pursuits like football, basketball and many others. Today’s part two of our series will look at a couple other important factors when it comes to determining mouthguard fit, plus some basics on long-term wear-and-tear and how you should prepare for it when it comes to your mouthguard.

General Comfort

While much of part one went over ensuring the mouthguard fits properly and covers the right areas in the mouth, those themes won’t matter if the mouthguard in question is not comfortable. Comfort is a top variable in any mouthguard selection – in fact, not being comfortable in their mouthguard is one of the top reasons athletes choose not to wear one, putting themselves at unnecessary risk that could have been avoided by simply finding a well-fitting mouthguard.

If your mouthguard is too bulky, for instance, or if it has uneven edges, it may cut or cause sores in your mouth when you wear it. In other cases, as we touched on in part one, an uncomfortable mouthguard may diminish your ability to breathe or speak properly, and this can have a resulting negative impact on your performance.

Bite Changes

It’s also important to note that if your mouth undergoes any kind of significant change, so should your mouthguard. If your child receives braces, for instance, or if you recently had changes made to your bite alignment involving your dentist, these and other situations will absolutely call for a new mouthguard fitting. Don’t assume that the old mouthguard will simply fit – it’s designed for a different mouth, after all.

Mouthguard Wear-and-Tear

And while specific mouth changes are one reason to change out your mouthguard, standard wear-and-tear is another. Even the strongest mouthguards are not invincible, and they will wear down over months or years of constant use – eventually, their materials will thin out and they may provide less protection.

While the frequency with which you should replace your mouthguard will vary by sport and how often it’s worn, this should be a theme you consider regularly. Anytime you notice the mouthguard’s fit changing as you bite down on it, or notice chunks missing or material wearing down, it’s time to at least consider a new mouthguard.

For more on how to find and maintain ideal mouthguard fit, or to learn about any of our custom mouthguards, speak to the staff at Damage Control Mouthguards today.