5 Clear Signs Your Athletic Mouthguard Is a Perfect Fit

An athletic mouthguard is essential for protecting your teeth during sports. Whether you’re playing contact sports like football or engaging in activities like martial arts, the best one is the one that is well-fitted. But how do you know if it fits correctly? In this blog, we will discuss the signs your athletic mouthguard is a good fit and how to ensure that you’re getting the protection you need while staying comfortable during the game.

1. It Fits Snugly Without Being Uncomfortable

The first sign that your mouthguard fits perfectly is how snugly it sits against your teeth. A good one should mold around your upper teeth without moving. It should fit snugly enough to stay in place but not be so tight that it causes pain or discomfort. If you feel like it shifts or you have to bite down constantly to keep it in place, then it’s likely not the right fit.

• What to check: The mouthguard should cover your teeth completely without digging into your gums.
• What to avoid: If you feel pressure on any specific tooth or area, it may be too tight.

A snug fit means that your mouthguard will stay put, protecting your teeth even during the most intense movements.

2. You Can Breathe Easily While Wearing It

One of the most important signs your athletic mouthguard is a good fit is your ability to breathe easily while wearing it. Breathing is critical during sports activities, and it shouldn’t interfere with it. If your mouthguard restricts airflow, it might be too large or poorly designed. A proper fit allows you to breathe comfortably through your mouth and nose without feeling restricted.

• What to check: Ensure you can take deep breaths without obstruction when it is in place.
• What to avoid: If you feel like you need to remove the mouthguard just to catch your breath, it’s not the right fit.

Breathing should never feel like a challenge while wearing a mouthguard. If it does, it’s time for an adjustment or a new guard.

3. You Can Speak Clearly With It On

Although communication during sports may not be as critical as protection, you should still be able to speak clearly with your mouthguard in place. The well-fitted one shouldn’t obstruct your speech. If you find yourself mumbling or struggling to talk to your teammates while wearing the guard, it might not fit properly.

• What to check: Test your speech while wearing it. You should be able to communicate without taking it out.
• What to avoid: If your mouthguard makes it difficult to pronounce words or causes slurred speech, it’s not the best fit.

Communicating clearly while protecting your teeth is a good indication that it fits well and won’t distract you during play.

4. It Stays in Place During Play

A good fit means your mouthguard stays securely in place, even during high-contact moments. You shouldn’t need to constantly adjust it or bite down to keep it where it belongs. If it moves when you talk, chew, or take a hit, it’s not providing the level of protection you need.

• What to check: Try opening and closing your mouth with the mouthguard in. It should stay put without effort.
• What to avoid: If it feels loose or shifts around easily, it may be too large or poorly fitted.

A mouthguard that stays in place during intense movements is essential for protecting your teeth and mouth during sports.

5. There’s No Gag Reflex

One of the lesser-known signs that your athletic mouthguard is a good fit is that it doesn’t trigger your gag reflex. Mouthguards that extend too far back into your mouth or cover too much of the palate can cause discomfort, including gagging. A properly fitted mouthguard will cover your teeth and gums but won’t go far enough back to cause any gagging.

• What to check: It should stop just before it touches the soft palate at the back of your mouth.
• What to avoid: If wearing one makes you feel like gagging or choking, it’s too big or the wrong shape for your mouth.

It should protect you without causing discomfort. If it’s making you gag, it’s time to find a better fit.

Signs Your Athletic Mouthguard Is a Good Fit: Additional Tips

Now that you know the signs your athletic mouthguard is a good fit, here are some additional tips to help you ensure that your mouthguard fits perfectly from the start.

1. Custom-Made 

The best way to guarantee a perfect fit is to get a custom-made mouthguard from your dentist. Custom mouthguards are designed to match your unique dental structure, offering the best protection and comfort.

2. Boil-and-Bite 

If you opt for a store-bought mouthguard, the boil-and-bite variety can offer a better fit than stock options. Follow the instructions carefully to mold it to your teeth properly. Be sure not to overheat or underheat the material.

3. Regular Checkups

Mouthguards can wear down over time. It’s important to check them regularly for signs of wear and tear. A damaged or worn mouthguard may not fit as well as it should, reducing its ability to protect your teeth.

• Replace: If you notice cracks or if it no longer fits snugly, it’s time for a new one.

4. Proper Care

Taking care of your mouthguard can help it maintain its shape and fit. Always store it in a ventilated container when not in use and clean it regularly with cold water and a mild soap. Avoid exposure to high temperatures, as this can cause the material to warp.

What to Do If Your Mouthguard Doesn’t Fit?

If you’re experiencing discomfort, difficulty breathing, or shifting while wearing your mouthguard, it’s essential to address the issue. If it fits poorly, it can lead to more problems than it solves, including increased risk of injury. Visit your dentist Calgary to discuss your options. A new custom mouthguard may be the best solution.

A properly fitted athletic mouthguard is essential for both protection and comfort. By looking out for these signs, your athletic mouthguard is a good fit, and you can ensure you’re getting the most out of your gear. Remember, it should fit snugly, stay in place, allow you to breathe and speak easily, and never cause discomfort. If your mouthguard lacks in any of these areas, it’s time for an adjustment or replacement. Your teeth and gums deserve the best protection—make sure it is doing its job.