Why Does My Mouthguard Taste Bad? Causes, Fixes, & Tips
Having an unpleasant taste in your mouthguard can be annoying, particularly if you are trying to concentrate during the sport. Although mouthguards act as protectors for the teeth during sporting activities, their unpleasant taste is likely to result from the bacteria that may form inside them or poor handling.
In this blog, we'll discuss why your mouthguard may taste bitter, metallic, sour, or simply unpleasant, what you can do to fix it, and how to keep it fresh for longer.
📑 Table of Contents
Why Does My Mouthguard Taste Bad?
A bad taste in your mouthguard can happen for several reasons, including:
Your Mouthguard Has Bacteria Buildup
Every time you wear your mouthguard, it comes into contact with saliva and moisture, which can allow bacteria to accumulate on its surface over time. This buildup can contribute to unpleasant tastes, especially when it becomes more noticeable after repeated use.
Research has found that sports mouthguards can become reservoirs for bacteria, as microbes build up the more they're used. This highlights why mouthguards can develop unpleasant smells or tastes if bacteria are allowed to multiply.
Curious about the types of bacteria that can grow on oral appliances? Check out our guide: 6 Bacteria Found on Dirty Night Guards & How to Clean Them
You're Not Cleaning or Drying It Properly
Rinsing alone might not help you clean out all the residue that is accumulated inside your mouthguard. If you do not clean it frequently, it is possible that bacteria will stick to it, and create an odd taste.
Studies have found that many athletes do not follow consistent mouthguard cleaning and storage practices, which may contribute to bacterial buildup.
Additionally, keeping your mouthguard damp for extended periods may encourage microbial growth. FEMA states that moisture can create conditions where mold can grow. Since mold growth can produce musty odors, it may contribute to an unpleasant experience when it develops on damp items.
Your Mouthguard Still Has Residue From Cleaning Products
While cleaning your sports mouthguard is important, it's also necessary to rinse it properly afterward. In some cases, some cleaning products will leave an aftertaste or residue if not cleaned up properly. If you have noticed that your mouthguard has an unpleasant taste, it is probably because of the cleaning solution that has been left behind.
Want to learn more about keeping your mouthguard clean between uses? Read this next: Does Cleaning & Whitening Foam Actually Work? | ClearClub
Your Mouthguard Is Either Brand New or Worn Out
As you mouthguard ages, it is normal for it to become worn, absorb odors, and develop changes in taste and texture. If cleaning no longer removes the unpleasant taste, it may be time to replace it.
On the contrary, when your mouth guard has a taste that resembles plastic, it could be due to residual manufacturing or the actual material used. This taste will fade away after adequate rinsing and cleaning.
Quick Fixes for a Bad-Tasting Mouthguard
If you're looking for a quick solution to your weird-tasting mouthguard, these tips might help:
Rinse Your Mouthguard After Every Use
Cleaning the guard after using it will remove all saliva and other residues from it. You must use clean water for this purpose and should not keep it moist when storing.
Clean It Using the Recommended Method
Regular cleaning helps in removing the buildup that causes bad tastes. Doing some deep cleaning on your mouth guard once in a while will help keep it fresh, and daily rinsing will remove the buildup of bacteria.
Let it Dry Completely Before Storing
Having a damp mouth guard could be an invitation for bacteria and bad odors or tastes. Air it out first before putting it inside the case.
If you plan on exposing it to heat for faster drying, second thoughts would be necessary. Heat could potentially damage the material of the appliance, so proper storage is a must. Learn more here: How Heat Can Affect Your Night Guard During Summer Travel
Replace Your Mouthguard When Needed
If cleaning no longer removes the unpleasant taste, or if your mouthguard shows signs of wear, it may be time to replace it. To know when it's time for a new one, check out our guide: 5 Signs Your Sports Mouthguard Needs Immediate Replacement
By following these simple care habits consistently, you can help prevent unpleasant tastes and odors from coming back while keeping your mouthguard fresh for longer.
Keep Your Mouthguard Fresh and Game-Ready
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Using a sports mouthguard with an unpleasant taste can be distracting and annoying, especially since you will be required to concentrate on playing the game. To ensure that your mouthguard stays clean and fresh, we have got you covered with our Cleaning + Whitening Foam.
In case your current mouthguard is already worn out or you want to have a new one altogether, then our Sports Mouthguard is the right choice for you. Both products are available through our subscription plan for easier maintenance and replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can a dirty or bad-tasting mouthguard make you sick?
A dirty or foul-smelling mouthguard doesn't necessarily mean you'll get sick, but it can be a sign that bacteria, mold, or other harmful microorganisms are present. Cleaning, drying, and replacing your mouthguard regularly helps reduce microbial growth and maintain good oral hygiene.
❓ Why does my mouthguard taste like plastic?
A plastic taste may mean your mouthguard is brand new or that its materials are beginning to break down from regular use. If it's new, wash it thoroughly before wearing it. If the taste develops after months of use and doesn't go away, it's likely time to replace your mouthguard.
❓ How often should you replace your sports mouthguard?
Most manufacturers recommend replacing a sports mouthguard every 3 to 6 months, depending on how often you use it and how well you maintain it. You should also replace it immediately if it becomes damaged, worn out, or no longer fits properly.
Looking for something else? Check our full FAQ section.