Fitting a self-fit mouthguard at home is quick, but two small slips cause most of the problems we hear about: leaving the guard in the hot water too long, and not quite getting a snug fit. OPRO founder and dentist Dr Anthony Lovat explains what causes each one and how to put it right, so you can get a mouthguard that fits properly and protects your teeth.
Why has my mouthguard melted in hot water?
If your mouthguard looks melted after fitting, the most likely cause is that it was left in the hot water for too long.
When the guard gets too hot, the material becomes overly soft and starts to lose its structure. You may also notice the sides falling inwards when you bite down.
Timing is everything here. Always use a timer and follow the timings in your fitting instructions precisely, rather than guessing.
Unfortunately, once a mouthguard has overheated and lost its shape, it can't be remoulded. That's exactly why we offer our Precision Fit Guarantee. Get in touch with our customer services team and we'll send you a replacement free of charge, so you can try the fitting process again.
Why is my mouthguard loose or falling out?
Dr Lovat explains how to tell if your fit isn't quite right, and what to do next:
If your OPRO mouthguard feels loose at the back, or falls out when you open your mouth, it's likely you haven't quite achieved the right fit.
How to check your mouthguard fits properly
There's a simple way to check. Take the mouthguard out and look inside. You should see clear impressions of your teeth. If you can't really see where your teeth have moulded into the guard, that's usually a sign the fit isn't right.
OPRO mouthguards are remouldable, so you can go through the fitting process again. This time, follow the fitting instructions carefully, step by step.
A correctly fitted mouthguard should feel secure and stay in place when you open your mouth.
Still can't get the right fit? Our Precision Fit Guarantee
If you're still having trouble after a second attempt, contact our customer services team. With our Precision Fit Guarantee, we'll work with you until you get the fit right.
Quick checklist before you start:
- Have a timer ready and stick to the timings in the instructions
- Check inside the guard afterwards for clear tooth impressions
- Test the fit by opening your mouth: the guard should stay put
