How to Talk With a Mouthguard

Mouthguards protect the mouth from injury. The device is placed inside the mouth and covers the teeth and gums. It prevents and reduces injury to the gums, teeth, lips and arches. Athletes playing contact sports frequently use mouthguards to prevent injury to the mouth and jaw area. Mouthguards also have several medical uses, including treatment for dental disorders and dental procedures, such as tooth whitening. Because the mouthguard rests inside the mouth, it can be difficult to speak when wearing a mouthguard.

Things You'll Need

  • Pot
  • Bowl
  • Ice
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Instructions

  1. Customize the Mouthguard

    • 1

      Purchase a "boil and bite" mouthguard from a sporting goods store.

    • 2

      Boil the mouthguard for 20 to 30 seconds. Cool the mouthguard for three seconds in cold water.

    • 3

      Place the mouthguard in your mouth, and gently bite down for a few seconds.

    • 4

      Place it back in the water for a few minutes to set the shape. Alternately, purchase a custom-made mouthguard from your dentist.

    Get Used to the Mouthguard

    • 5

      Place the mouthguard in your mouth.

    • 6

      Push the mouthguard up against your top teeth using your tongue or fingers. This enables your tongue to move more freely than if the mouthguard was resting on your bottom teeth. If the mouthguard is correctly fitted to your teeth, it should stay in place. If it falls down, apply more pressure when pushing it up against the top teeth.

    • 7

      Practice speaking with the mouthguard in place so your tongue can adjust to touching the device while you talk. Your speech may sound slightly muddled or slurred, but this is normal.