Mouthguards are essential safety equipment for the practice of various sports. However, if the protector is not molded to fit your teeth, it will be uncomfortable and may end up not providing the necessary protection or even falling off at an important moment. To increase the effectiveness and comfort of your mouthguard, cut it to the right size and shape it to the shape of your teeth. You just need a few minutes.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Trimming the Guard
Step 1. Place the mouthguard in your mouth to see how it looks
Take the protector out of its packaging and place it in your mouth. Use your teeth and tongue to see how it looks over your dental arch and the back of your mouth. Another option is to run your fingers across your cheeks to feel the pad on the outside. If it doesn't fit snugly or if you put pressure on the back of your mouth, you need to trim it.
- If the protector material is soft, you may be able to bite into it to mark how far your teeth go. This will make it easier to know where to cut.
- Don't worry if the protector doesn't fit perfectly in your dental arch. The important thing for the moment is just that it feels comfortable in your mouth.
Step 2. Cut about 0.5 cm from each end of the shield
Take the mouth guard off. If it has become too big or uncomfortable, cut 0.5 cm from each end with sharp scissors. Cut at an angle that preserves the curvature of the original edge and try to make both sides the same size.
If you can see your teeth marks on the protector, cut it to the right size to cover your dental arch. In general, any part without a bite mark is expendable in a mouthguard
Step 3. Try the protector again
Put the mouthguard in your mouth once more and move it until it snaps into place. If the shield continues to press down on the back of your mouth, repeat the step above, trimming 0.5 cm on each side at a time until it's just right.
- Don't worry if the cut is a little crooked or slightly uncomfortable. When you boil the protector to mold it, the hot water will soften the tips.
- A mouthguard of the right size should cover up to your second molars.
Part 2 of 2: Molding the Mouthguard
Step 1. Boil a pot of water
Fill a pot with water up to 10 cm and bring to medium high heat. Let it boil. Then, turn off the heat to reduce the intensity of the boil.
- The amount of water must be sufficient to submerge the mouthguard.
- If you don't have a stove or a stove nearby, boil the water in the microwave. Heat it for four or five minutes in an ovenproof dish, or until it comes to a boil.
Step 2. Let the protector soak for 30 seconds
With a slotted spoon or other utensil, dip the mouthguard into boiling water. Set a timer for 30 seconds and soak the protector, taking care not to touch the sides of the pan.
- If the protector is suitable for rugby or other sports, use the front strap to hold it in the water.
- Always boil the protector in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Most products need 30 seconds in boiling water, but some products require more or less time.
Step 3. Take the protector out of the water and let it cool for 20 seconds
Carefully take the mouthguard out of the pan and place it on a clean, dry cloth. Dry it with the tips of the cloth to remove the boiling water and let it cool. The shield should still be hot, but not so hot that it burns your hand.
- Avoid touching the protector unnecessarily so as not to deform it while it is still hot.
- You can also soak the protector in a container of cold water for a second to cool it down and remove the boiling water.
Step 4. Tighten the tine protector
Place the mouthguard in your mouth once more and press it against your teeth. Using your fingers and tongue, snugly fit the protector into the upper part of the dental arch. Bite it lightly to make it fit your lower teeth as well.
After placing the mouthguard in your mouth, you will only have 30 seconds before it gets too cold to mold. Be quick
Step 5. Suck excess water to tighten the protector
While applying pressure to the pad, force your mouth and throat muscles to suck or swallow. The movement will suck out the water between your teeth and the guard. This way, it will be tighter and better adjusted to the shape of your mouth.
Step 6. Place the protector in cold water to set
Remove the mouth guard and place it in a bowl of cold water. Leave to soak for 30 seconds to set.
If the protector is still poorly adjusted, repeat the step above to mold it again
Step 7. Store the protector in a cool place
After the protector is completely dry, store it in a dry and clean place. Place it in a plastic case with ventilation holes so that it dries after use and does not accumulate fungus and bacteria.
Tips
- If using braces, be careful not to make the protector too tight. Otherwise, it may stick to the device. Cover your teeth with aluminum foil or have your orthodontist mold the protector for you.
- You can also find custom-made mouthguards. Type protectors are often more comfortable and durable than those that need to be molded. However, they also cost more. Take a look at the internet or talk to your dentist about a custom mouthguard.
- Over time, you may need to re-mould the protector, especially if your baby teeth are still being replaced with perms.
- Change the mouthguard every three months, more or less, so as not to lose effectiveness.
Notices
- Clean and sanitize the protector frequently to prevent bacteria buildup.
- The mouthguard is a first order safety equipment. Therefore, it is essential that it fits well with your teeth.