Why Does My Mouthguard Make Me Gag? Causes & Solutions

If your mouthguard makes you gag every time you wear it, you're probably wondering if something is wrong with you. The good news? Not necessarily. Gagging can happen for a number of reasons, and having a sensitive gag reflex is only of them.

A mouthguard that's too bulky, extends too far back, doesn't fit properly, or simply feels unfamiliar can all contribute to that unpleasant reaction. In this blog, we'll explore why your mouthguard may be triggering your gag reflex and what you can do to make wearing it more comfortable.

Why Does a Mouthguard Trigger Your Gag Reflex?

Before exploring why a mouthguard may make you feel like you're going to gag, let's first understand how the gag reflex works. According to Cleveland Clinic, a gag reflex is an involuntary response that occurs in the body to prevent oneself from choking. This happens due to contact with objects at sensitive spots in the mouth and throat region.

So, what does this have to do with a mouthguard? Several factors can make your mouthguard more likely to trigger this protective response.

The Mouthguard Extends Too Far Back

Not every mouth is shaped or sized the same. In a study published in the Journal of Dental Research, researchers examined the mouths of 57 people from childhood through adulthood and found differences in the size of several areas of the mouth, including the palate and tongue.

In other words, what is comfortable to one individual in terms of a mouthguard may be too large for another. When your mouthguard reaches further into your mouth, it becomes more likely to come into contact with sensitive parts that cause you to gag.

A Bulky or Poorly Fitting Mouthguard

Your mouth guard may also cause gagging based on its thickness. Stock and boil-and-bite mouth guards may not be as comfortable compared to custom-fit mouth guards because of their sizes and how they fit inside your mouth.                                               

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends properly fitted mouthguards and notes that custom-made mouthguards are designed to provide an individualized fit. If a mouth guard is overly thick, bulky, or does not fit snugly inside your mouth, it can seem more obtrusive, which may cause you to be more sensitive to your gag reflex.

Your Mouth Needs Time to Adjust

If you're new to wearing a mouthguard, some gagging may simply be your mouth reacting to something unfamiliar. It may feel strange having something in your mouth at first, particularly if you are not accustomed to how big, small, shaped, or feeling the object is.

The tongue, among other muscle groups, may take some time getting used to the presence of the mouthguard. Until you become accustomed to the sensation, the unfamiliar feeling can make your gag reflex more noticeable.

A Dirty or Poorly Maintained Mouthguard

A dirty mouthguard also becomes less comfortable to use. Over time, bits of food, plaque, bacteria, and other gunk can build up on it, which can leave it tasting or smelling pretty unpleasant.

If your mouthguard smells or tastes bad when you put it in, that unpleasant sensation may make wearing it even harder — especially if you're already sensitive to gagging.

How to Stop Gagging When Wearing a Mouthguard

If your mouth guard continues to set off your gag reflex, then there are some things that can be tried to make wearing the guard easier. As pointed out by Healthline, methods like relaxation, distraction, and progressive desensitization can work for a sensitive gag reflex.

1. Try gradual desensitization. If you have not used a mouthguard before, it would be best for you to use it for a brief period at first and gradually increase its use as you become comfortable with it.
2. Keep your stress levels low. Anxiety and tension can lead to an increase in the feeling of gag reflex. It would be good for you to try and breathe slowly and keep your muscles relaxed.
3. Use distraction technique. You might find it easier to deal with the feeling of wearing your mouthguard if you manage to focus your attention on something else.
4. Keep your mouthguard clean. Your mouthguard could develop an unpleasant taste because of the presence of bacteria and plaque on its surface. It will make the feeling of wearing the mouthguard much less pleasant for you.
5. Check the mouthguard's fit. After giving yourself enough time to adapt to your mouthguard and yet you still continue to gag, it is advisable to check the mouthguard. It may be too large or bulky.

Could Your Mouthguard Be the Problem?

If you're still gagging after giving yourself time to adjust, your mouthguard may be contributing to the problem. A guard that feels too long, bulky, loose, or uncomfortable may not be fitting properly. Not sure if your night guard fits properly? Read How Do I Know If My Night Guard Fits Properly? to learn what a proper fit should feel like.

Find a Mouthguard That Fits Comfortably

Having a gag reflex is completely normal, so you don't need to fix it just because your dental guard makes you uncomfortable. Instead of trying to get accustomed to a guard that just doesn't work for you, wouldn't it be easier to wear something custom-made for your mouth? ClearClub's custom-made guards are made from your own dental impression and come in different thicknesses, so you can find a fit that feels more comfortable.

Want a fresher mouthguard without having to remember when to replace it? Our renewal plan delivers fresh replacements on a regular schedule, helping you keep your mouthguard routine clean and comfortable. Ready for a more comfortable mouthguard experience? Try ClearClub today.

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