Mouthguards keep your teeth safe. Athletes wear them during sports. Some people wear them at night when they grind their teeth. But how long can you wear one? The answer is simple: most people should not wear a mouthguard for more than 8 to 10 hours at a time. Your mouth needs breaks from the guard so your gums and teeth stay healthy. Read this blog further to know, “Is it okay to wear a mouth guard all day?”
Why People Wear Mouthguards
Different people wear mouthguards for different reasons. If you play sports like football, hockey, or basketball, you wear one to protect your teeth from getting hit. Some people wear them at night because they grind their teeth while sleeping. Others wear them after dental work. Each reason has its own rules about how long to wear the guard.
What Happens Inside Your Mouth When You Wear a Guard
When you wear a mouth guards in Calgary, something changes in your mouth. The guard covers your teeth and sometimes your gums. Your mouth produces less spit because the guard takes up space. Your gums don’t get as much air. When you wear the guard too long, your gums can get unhappy. Your mouth actually needs fresh air and breaks to stay healthy. Think of it like this: your feet need breaks from being in shoes all day.
Is It Okay to Wear a Mouthguard All Day??
Most dentists say do not wear a mouthguard for more than 8 to 10 hours straight. If you wear it longer than that, your mouth starts to have problems. Your gums might feel sore. Your teeth might feel odd. Your breath might not smell good. It’s better to wear your guard only when you really need it and take it out the rest of the time.
Sports Mouthguards: The Right Way to Use Them
If you play sports, wear your guard only during the game or practice. The moment you stop playing, take it out of your mouth. Rinse it with clean water and let it dry. Never wear a sports guard while you’re eating or drinking anything. Never wear it just sitting around at home. This way, your mouth gets plenty of time without the guard every single day.
Night Guards for Grinding Teeth
If you grind your teeth while you sleep, a night guard is perfect for you. You can wear this guard all night long. This is completely okay because you’re only wearing it while you sleep. When you wake up in the morning, take it out. Clean it. Put it away. Your mouth gets to be guard-free for your whole day while you’re awake.
Tell Your Dentist in Calgary About Your Guard
When you visit your dentist near you, tell them about your mouthguard. Tell them how many hours you wear it. Tell them why you wear it. Tell them if you have any problems with it. Your dentist can look at your gums and teeth to make sure the guard isn’t hurting anything. They can also show you the best way to clean your guard and store it so it lasts longer.
Signs Your Guard Is Causing Problems
Sometimes using a mouthguard too much becomes troublesome. Your gums could feel sore or swollen. You might feel your teeth loosening or wiggling. You may have chronic bad breath that doesn’t go away. You may experience jaw pain. Chewing your food may be difficult for you. If any of these happen, stop wearing your guardian for a moment. Let your mouth take a break. Then call up your dentist to discuss what’s going on.
Keeping Your Smile Safe and Healthy with Crescent Heights Dental Clinic
When you need a mouthguard or have questions about the one you wear, Crescent Heights Dental Clinic is here for you. Our team truly cares about your smile. We listen when you tell us why you need a guard. We make a custom guard that fits your mouth perfectly and feels comfortable. We show you exactly how long to wear it and how to take care of it. We make sure your guard protects your teeth without hurting your gums. Your smile is important to us. We want to help you keep it strong and beautiful for your whole life. If you live in Calgary and need a mouthguard or want advice about the one you have, come see us. We’re your friends in keeping your teeth safe and healthy.
Questions People Often Ask
Can I eat or drink while wearing my mouthguard?
No, take your guard out before eating or drinking anything except water, because food and drinks can ruin it and create germs on it.
How often do I need to get a new mouthguard?
Most guards last about 3 to 5 years, but check it often for cracks or holes and get a new one sooner if you see damage.
What’s the best way to clean my mouthguard?
Rinse it with cool water right after you use it, gently brush it with a toothbrush, and keep it in a clean container so it stays fresh.
Can a mouthguard make my jaw hurt?
If your guard doesn’t fit right or you wear it too long, your jaw might hurt; ask your dentist to fix it if this happens to you.