One of the most important parts of any sport is mouth protection. How many times can you remold a mouthguard? The answer to that question varies depending on what type of mouthguard you are using and how well it was made.
Some mouthguards are remoldable up to 20 times but others will break after a few attempts. Simply place your mouthguard back in the hot water, let it soften, and straighten out.
Can I Reboil My Mouthguard?
Yes. If you are concerned with the performance of your mouthguard, boil it for a couple of minutes in hot water to make sure that there is no odor or bacteria left on.
Even if you don’t get the right fit you can repeat the process.
If you never boiled a mouthguard before you can check out our article about molding a mouthguard using boiling water.
How to Tell If Your Mouthguard Needs Remolding?
Your mouthguard needs remolding if you feel like it is not a tight fit anymore. If it feels loose and you have the sensation it might fall then you definitely need to remold or get a new one.
Another reason would be if your teeth are feeling some discomfort and you think it might be a mouthguard issue.
Any dental work you got done recently might also show you that is time to remold. The fit of the mouthguard will be different.
If you are concerned with the performance of your mouthguards, boil them for a minute in hot water to make sure that there is no odor or bacteria left on. Even if you don’t get the right fit, you can repeat this process (though hopefully, you will get it right this time!)
How Long Does It Take to Remold a Mouthguard?
It should take a little over five minutes for the entire process. Keep in mind that if you hold the mouthguard too much in hot water it might get damaged. The mouthguard should stay around 20-30 seconds in boiling water.
It depends on the mouthguard material and how well it is made. Some will be harder to boil and remold than others.
Sisu claimed their mouthguards are remoldable up to 20 times. You can take a look at the video below to see how easy it is to bring the mouthguard to its original shape.
What Are The Benefits of a New Mouthguard?
A new mouthguard will provide a more snug fit for you. It is also easier to remold your new mouthguard than an old one so it doesn’t just pop out when you’re playing hard in the heat of battle. That is not all, however! The benefits are endless and they include:
- Staying on track with the right mouthguard
- Getting a better fit
- Decreasing your chance of getting hurt
- Providing an easier way to remold it for future use.
Is It Worth Remolding a Mouthguard?
Usually, it is better to get a new mouthguard than to remold an old one. It is worth getting a new one for the comfort of knowing that it will fit properly and not pop out during game time.
However, there are times when you would want to remold a mouthguard such as when you cannot buy a new one because you don’t have enough time or they are out of stock.
Remolding Instructions
Remolding is no different than the first molding of the mouthguard. Usually, mouthguards have specific instructions that show you what needs to be done.
You can also check out youtube videos but the primary instructions you should follow are the ones that come with the mouthguard.
Overall the molding process is simple and straightforward. You will basically need a bowl with boiling water, your mouthguard, and tongs.
After keeping the mouthguard in hot water take it out using tongs and wait a few seconds. You don’t want to get hurt by putting a hot mouthguard in your mouth. After this, you bite down on it.
If you have trouble biting down on the mouthguard, bite it from one side and push your tongue against the other. It should take a little over five minutes for the entire process.
Conclusion
There is no right answer to how many times you can remold a mouthguard. The type of mouthguard and the way it was made will dictate this number.
It is important to take care of your mouthguard and make sure it lasts as long as possible. If you have a remoldable or boil-and-bite type, then simply place the softened mouthpiece back in hot water, let it soften, and straighten out.