How to Form a Mouth Guard

A properly-fitted mouth guard should be worn in all contact sports. It enables the participant to play aggressively without fear of injury. A "boil and bite" mouth guard is a cost effective, practical option that's simple to shape.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pot
• Tongs

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Drop a boil-and-bite mouth guard in the water for 10 to 15 seconds, until it is soft and pliable.

2. Remove the mouth guard from the boiling water with tongs. Allow it to cool for a moment, until it is not too hot to touch.

3. Position the guard in your mouth and bite down hard. Hold your bite for several seconds.

4. Remove the mouth guard from your mouth and dip it into cold water to harden the mold.

5. Check the fit once the mouth guard has cooled completely. Repeat the process, as necessary, until the proper fit is achieved.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase a boil-and-bite mouth guard at most drugstores and any sporting goods store. Be sure to choose a mouth guard that's large enough to cover all of your teeth.
• Be careful not to bite down on your mouth guard before it has cooled to an appropriate temperature.

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