Protective Equipment: How Long Should Your Mouthguard Last?

Like all athletic equipment, mouthguards take some wear and tear over the course of a long season. And because the mouth is an especially harsh environment, your mouthguard may take even more of a beating than things like shoulder pads or your helmet.

The question is, how long does your mouthguard last? Should you replace it each year like some of your other gear?

Like all protective equipment, mouthguards do have a shelf life, but that varies based on usage and how you take care of it. A mouthguard that isn’t cleaned, stored or maintained properly is going to wear out quickly.

With proper care, your custom mouthguard’s longevity could last as long as three to five years!

However, due to general breakdown from usage, a good rule of thumb is to replace your mouthguard each year. That helps to ensure it’s providing you with optimal protection and effectiveness, as well as keeping your mouth sanitary.

So how do you get the most out of your mouthguard and make sure it lasts?

Don’t Chew

Chewing on your mouthguard doesn’t just compromise the protective qualities of the guard, but the comfort as well. That’s because chewing breaks down the materials, creating rips and tears, which makes the mouthguard less effective. It also creates spaces for bacteria to grow.

If your chewing has punctured your mouthguard in any way, it’s likely time to retire that guard.

Clean Properly

It’s important to rinse off your mouthguard with water or wipe with a mild antibacterial agent and then rinse before and after each use. A quick rinse helps to remove any bacteria that may be lingering.

A denture cleaner is recommended for keeping your mouthguard clean. Effervescent cleaner works the best by far. Just do not clean your mouthguard with toothpaste, a toothbrush or mouthwash; these all cause damage.

Store Safely

Don’t just throw your mouthguard into your dirty gym bag or the bottom of your locker. Make sure to store it in a safe plastic case to avoid both damage and dirt.

A clean, rigid and ventilated plastic container works best, and should not be exposed to prolonged direct sunlight or sources of heat. And of course, the case you keep your mouthguard in must be kept clean too.

Make Adjustments

The mouths of young athletes — particularly those under the age of 14 — are still changing, so in order to maintain effectiveness, a new impression may be required every so often for their custom mouthguard.

While impressions should last about two years for young athletes, the mouth stops changing around the age of 14 and then an impression gives you the perfect fit forever. Thankfully, custom mouthguards make that easy, compared to generic boil-and-bite mouthguards!

When it comes to protective equipment, how long should your gear last? Are there ways of extending the shelf life of things like custom mouthguards? With proper cleaning, storage and usage, your equipment should be properly effective for longer. What are some other ways to ensure effectiveness? Find out at the link below.

Make Your Mouthguard More Effective

Author Bio

Bobbie Quinn, co-founder of Gladiator Custom Mouthguards, played both lacrosse and field hockey as a youth and went on to play Division 1 women’s lacrosse in college. Bobbie continues to play women’s league field hockey and enjoys watching her son play various sports.