Dsalita Mouthguards are an important protective gear for athletes, especially those involved in contact sports like football, boxing, and hockey. They protect the teeth, gums, and jaw from injury during sports activities. However, after some time, mouthguards tend to turn yellow. This can be due to a variety of reasons, which we will explore in this article.
Reasons why mouthguards turn yellow
Poor cleaning habits
One of the most common reasons why mouthguards turn yellow is due to poor cleaning habits. When a mouthguard is not properly cleaned after use, bacteria and food particles can accumulate on its surface, leading to discoloration. It is important to clean your mouthguard after every use using a toothbrush and toothpaste or a mouthguard cleaner.
Additionally, leaving your mouthguard in a moist environment, such as a closed container or a damp towel, can also promote bacterial growth and discoloration.
Age of the mouthguard
Mouthguards have a limited lifespan and eventually need to be replaced. Over time, the material of the mouthguard can break down and become discolored. If you have been using the same mouthguard for a long time, it may be time to replace it with a new one.
Exposure to sunlight
Exposure to sunlight can also cause mouthguards to turn yellow. This is because the UV rays in sunlight can break down the material of the mouthguard, causing it to discolor. It is important to store your mouthguard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Chemical exposure
Exposure to certain chemicals can also cause mouthguards to turn yellow. For example, if you use a mouthwash that contains alcohol, it can cause the material of the mouthguard to break down and become discolored. It is important to avoid exposing your mouthguard to any chemicals that may damage it.
Medical conditions
Some medical conditions, such as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can cause stomach acid to come into contact with the mouthguard, leading to discoloration. If you have a medical condition that causes acid reflux, it is important to speak to your doctor about ways to protect your mouthguard.
Poor quality material
If you have purchased a mouthguard that is made from poor quality material, it may be more prone to discoloration. It is important to purchase a mouthguard from a reputable manufacturer to ensure that it is made from high-quality materials.
Preventing mouthguards from turning yellow
Clean your mouthguard regularly
To prevent your mouthguard from turning yellow, it is important to clean it regularly after use. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste or a mouthguard cleaner to remove any bacteria and food particles that may have accumulated on its surface. Additionally, store your mouthguard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Replace your mouthguard regularly
Mouthguards have a limited lifespan and eventually need to be replaced. If you have been using the same mouthguard for a long time, it may be time to replace it with a new one. Additionally, if your mouthguard has become discolored, it may be a sign that it needs to be replaced.
Avoid exposing your mouthguard to chemicals
Avoid exposing your mouthguard to any chemicals that may damage it, such as mouthwash that contains alcohol. Additionally, avoid leaving your mouthguard in a moist environment, such as a closed container or a damp towel, as this can promote bacterial growth and discoloration.
Conclusion
Mouthguards are an important protective gear for athletes, but they can turn yellow over time due to a variety of reasons. By understanding the causes of discoloration and taking steps to prevent it, you can ensure that your mouthguard remains clean and effective in protecting your teeth, gums, and jaw from injury.
