August 28, 2025
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How long do mouth guards last on average?
Most sports mouth guards last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. But the average athlete usually needs a replacement about once a year.
Why the big range? It depends on a few things:
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Frequency of use - If you train or compete multiple times a week, your mouth guard wears out faster
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Type of mouth guard - Custom-fitted guards made by professionals usually last longer than stock or boil-and-bite ones.
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Age of the athlete - Younger athletes are still growing, so their bite changes more often, which means their guards need replacing sooner.
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Care and maintenance - How you clean, store, and handle your mouth guard plays a big role in how long it lasts.
Think of it this way: if you're a weekend athlete, your mouth guard may last longer. But if you're grinding through daily practices, don't expect it to stick around for years.
Signs your mouth guard needs replacing
Even if you're not counting the months, your mouth guard will usually tell you when it's time to retire it. Watch out for these signs of mouth guard wear and tear:
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Cracks or tears - These can reduce protection and even cause gum irritation.
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Loose fit - If it doesn't stay snug against your teeth, it won't protect properly.
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Chew marks - Many athletes chew on their guards, which quickly shortens their lifespan.
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Bad odor - Lingering smells can mean bacteria buildup and poor hygiene.
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Discomfort - A well-fitting guard should feel natural. If it starts to feel off, it's time for a new one.
Custom mouth guards vs. Store-bought: Durability matters
When talking about how long mouth guards last, it's important to know that not all of them are made the same. Also, some types are cheap and don't hold up very well, while others are built to last longer and protect your teeth better.
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Stock mouth guards - These are the cheapest ones you can get, usually from sports stores. The problem is they don't fit very well and usually only last a few months before they start wearing out.
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Boil-and-bite mouth guards - These are a step up because you can mold them to your teeth at home. They're more comfortable than stock guards, but they still don't last super long. Most people get about 6 to 12 months of use from them.
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Custom sports mouth guards - These are the best kind. They're made by a dentist to fit your teeth perfectly. They give you the most protection and also last the longest. If you take good care of them, they can last up to 2 years.
If you're serious about your sport, investing in a custom mouth guard is definitely worth it, not just because it lasts longer, but because it gives you the best safety, too.
Play with confidence and comfort
Switch to a Caspersmile custom sports mouth guard today to protect your smile without sacrificing performance.
Tips for athletic mouth guard maintenance
Want to make your mouth guard last longer? It's all about custom mouth guard care and simple daily habits: Rinse after every use - Use cool water or a mild mouth rinse.
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Clean regularly - Brush it gently with a toothbrush (no toothpaste, it's too abrasive).
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Store it properly - Keep it in a ventilated case, not stuffed in your sports bag.
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Avoid heat - Don't leave it in hot cars or near boiling water; heat can warp the material.
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Don't chew on it - Easier said than done, but biting shortens its life fast.
How often should you replace your sports mouth guard?
For most athletes, the answer is once a year. But if you're training heavily, or if your mouth guard shows early signs of damage, you'll need to replace sports mouth guard sooner.
Young athletes often need new mouth guards more frequently, sometimes every season, because their teeth and jaws are still developing.
Remember, a worn-out guard doesn't just lose durability; it also loses its ability to protect you. Replacing it on time is part of staying safe in your sport.
Why mouth guard lifespan matters
Some athletes try to stretch their mouth guards far past their prime, but that's a risky move. A guard with cracks, a poor fit, or weakened material may not protect you in a critical moment. Considering how costly dental injuries can be, replacing your guard on time is a small price for peace of mind.
Final thoughts
So, how long do mouth guards last? Not forever because most athletes need a new one every year. Although custom guards can sometimes go longer if you take care of them properly, which means paying attention to wear and tear, cleaning them the right way, and replacing them on time, so your smile stays protected season after season. Your mouth guard is like a silent teammate, always there doing its job without asking for much, so if you treat it well, it'll keep looking out for you.
Frequently asked questions
Citations
Professional, C. C. M. (2025x, June 30). Mouth guard. Cleveland Clinic.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10910-mouthguards
Mouth Guards: Everything You Need To Know. (n.d.). Colgate.
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/selecting-dental-products/mouth-guards-everything-you-need-to-know
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