Proper care for your mouthguard is essential for both your oral health and the longevity of the appliance. Whether you use a mouthguard for sports, teeth grinding, or sleep apnea, regular cleaning prevents bacteria buildup and ensures you’re not exposing yourself to harmful germs each time you wear it.
At North Atlanta Family Dentistry, we prioritize your dental health through comprehensive education. Learning how to properly clean and maintain your oral appliance is an important part of your overall oral hygiene routine. Read on to discover our expert tips for keeping your mouthguard in top condition.
Why Does Mouthguard Hygiene Matter
Prevents Bacterial Growth
Regular cleaning prevents the accumulation of harmful bacteria. Your mouth contains millions of bacteria that can transfer to your oral appliance during use. When left uncleaned, these bacteria multiply rapidly and create a biofilm that can lead to infections.
Extends the Lifespan of Your Mouthguard
Debris and bacteria can gradually degrade the material of your mouthguard, causing it to become brittle or misshapen. Regular cleaning removes these harmful substances before they can damage the structure. With proper care, it can remain effective and comfortable for much longer, saving you money on premature replacements.
Maintains Fresh Breath
A clean mouthguard contributes to fresher breath and overall oral hygiene. Bacteria that accumulate on an uncleaned mouth guard are often the same ones responsible for bad breath. These microorganisms produce volatile sulfur compounds that cause unpleasant odors. Regular cleaning eliminates these bacteria and their byproducts, helping to maintain fresh breath.
Prevents Oral Health Issues
Dirty mouthguards can harbor harmful microorganisms like staph and strep. These can lead to issues ranging from minor irritations to serious infections. Clean mouthguards also prevent the transfer of particles that could contribute to tooth decay or gum disease.
How to Maintain Your Mouthguard
- Rinse immediately after use – Always rinse with cool water right after removing it from your mouth to wash away saliva and loose debris.
- Brush gently – Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of mild, non-abrasive toothpaste to brush all surfaces.
- Air dry completely – After cleaning, place it on a clean towel and allow it to air dry thoroughly before storing.Store properly – Once dry, store your oral appliance in a
- ventilated case to prevent bacterial growth and protect it from damage.
- Clean the storage case – Wash your case regularly with soap and water, then allow it to dry completely to prevent mold growth.
- Inspect regularly – Check frequently for signs of wear, tears, or distortion that might indicate it’s time for a replacement.
When Should You Clean Your Mouthguard
Dentists recommend cleaning after each use. This means giving it at least a thorough rinse with cold water immediately after removal. A more detailed cleaning with gentle brushing should be performed daily, especially for night guards. Deep cleaning with specialized solutions should occur at least once a week for most users to eliminate bacteria that regular cleaning might miss.
4 Factors that May Affect Duration
- Usage frequency – If you use your oral appliance multiple times daily, you’ll need to clean it more frequently than someone who only uses it occasionally.
- Personal oral hygiene – Your overall dental health affects how quickly bacteria accumulate. Those with active dental issues may need to clean more frequently.
- Environmental conditions – Hot, humid environments or during high-intensity activities that cause excessive sweating can accelerate bacterial growth, necessitating more frequent cleaning.
- Type of mouthguard – Custom mouthguards made of higher-quality materials may require less frequent deep cleaning than store-bought varieties, though daily maintenance remains essential for all types.
How to Deep Clean Your Mouthguard
Deep cleaning should be performed at least once a week. This frequency should increase if you notice any discoloration, unusual odors, or if you’ve been sick recently. Athletes might benefit from deep cleaning after each game or practice session due to increased saliva production and bacteria exposure. Deep cleaning becomes particularly important for maintaining hygiene if you have any dental work, braces, or conditions like gingivitis that might introduce more bacteria.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning
- Rinse thoroughly – Begin by rinsing with cool water to remove any loose debris and saliva.
- Prepare your cleaning solution – Fill a clean cup with enough denture cleaner solution or a mixture of vinegar and water (equal parts).
- Soak the mouthguard – Place your guard in the solution and let it soak for 15-30 minutes, allowing the cleaning agents to penetrate and disinfect all surfaces.
- Brush gently after soaking – Remove it from the solution and brush gently with a soft bristle toothbrush to remove any loosened particles or residue.
- Rinse thoroughly with cool water – Make sure to completely rinse away all cleaning solution to prevent any chemical taste or irritation during your next use.
- Inspect for cleanliness – Hold your dental guard up to a light source to check for any remaining spots or buildup that might require additional cleaning attention.
- Allow to air dry completely – Place your freshly cleaned dental guard on a clean paper towel and allow it to air dry thoroughly before storing it in its case.
- Clean and dry the storage case – While drying, wash your storage case with soap and water, then dry it completely to prevent mold or bacterial growth.
3 Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
Using Hot Water
Using hot water is one of the most damaging mistakes you can make when cleaning. Heat can warp the plastic material, altering the custom fit that makes your dental guard effective and comfortable. Always use cool or warm water instead, which effectively removes debris without risking structural damage.
Applying Harsh Chemicals
Products containing alcohol, bleach, or strong abrasives break down the plastic and rubber compounds. This leads to premature breakdown and potential release of harmful substances. Instead, stick to mild, non-abrasive toothpaste, denture cleaners specifically formulated for oral appliances, or simple solutions like diluted white vinegar.
Improper Storage
Leaving your dental guard exposed to air, sunlight, or high temperatures allows bacteria to proliferate. Storing a damp mouth guard in an airtight container creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth. Always ensure your oral appliance is completely dry before storing it in a ventilated case kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
When Should You Replace Your Mouthguard
Most dental professionals recommend a replacement every 6 months to 2 years, depending on the type and frequency of use. Sports mouthguards typically have a shorter lifespan due to the intense wear and tear they experience during games. Night guards for teeth grinding might last longer if properly maintained, though the constant pressure from grinding can eventually affect their fit and effectiveness. Children and teens should have replacements more frequently. We recommend every 6 months, as their mouths are still growing and changing shape, affecting how well the guard fits and protects.
Signs You Need a Mouthguard Replacement
- Visible damage or distortion – Cracks, tears, holes, or any deformation compromises its protective capabilities and would require a replacement, regardless of age.
- Poor fit or discomfort – If your dental guard feels loose, too tight, or causes any pain when worn, its fit has been compromised and it should be replaced to ensure proper protection.
- Persistent odor or taste – When unpleasant smells or tastes remain even after thorough cleaning, this indicates deep bacterial penetration into the material that can’t be remedied and requires replacement.
- Discoloration or cloudiness – Yellowing, staining, or cloudy appearance in previously clear material indicates material breakdown and potential harboring of bacteria that cleaning can’t address.
- Difficulty breathing or speaking – If you suddenly experience problems breathing or speaking clearly with a mouthguard you’ve used successfully before, the shape has likely changed and no longer fits properly.
- Changes in dental work – New dental work like fillings, crowns, orthodontic adjustments, or completed orthodontic treatment will affect how your mouthguard fits and usually necessitate a replacement.
- After illness – Consider replacing your mouthguard after recovering from any significant illness, especially those affecting the mouth, throat, or respiratory system, to avoid reintroducing pathogens.
Conclusion
Maintaining a clean mouthguard is a simple yet crucial aspect of your oral hygiene routine. By following the proper care techniques outlined in this guide, you can ensure your mouthguard remains hygienic and effective. Remember that proper maintenance not only protects your dental health but also extends the lifespan of your investment.
For personalized advice about your mouthguard or to schedule a professional cleaning, contact North Atlanta Family Dentistry today. Our team of experts can help you maintain optimal oral health and ensure your mouthguard is providing the protection you need. Visit us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for more helpful dental care tips and to stay connected with our practice community.
