how to clean night mouth guard

3 min read 07-02-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to properly clean your night mouthguard to prevent bacteria buildup and maintain oral hygiene. This comprehensive guide covers daily cleaning, deep cleaning, and storage tips for optimal mouthguard care. Keep your mouthguard fresh and your smile healthy!

Why Clean Your Night Mouthguard?

A clean night mouthguard is crucial for both oral hygiene and the longevity of the device itself. Saliva, food particles, and bacteria accumulate on your mouthguard throughout the night. This can lead to unpleasant odors, the growth of harmful bacteria, and even oral infections. Regular cleaning prevents these issues, ensuring a fresh and healthy mouth. Neglecting cleaning can also damage your mouthguard, shortening its lifespan and necessitating a premature replacement.

Daily Cleaning of Your Night Mouthguard

Daily cleaning is the cornerstone of good mouthguard hygiene. Follow these simple steps for best results:

Step 1: Rinse Thoroughly

Immediately after removing your mouthguard, rinse it under cool or lukewarm running water. This removes loose food particles and saliva. Avoid hot water, as this can warp some mouthguard materials.

Step 2: Brush Gently

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild, non-abrasive toothpaste to gently scrub all surfaces of the mouthguard. Pay close attention to crevices and areas where debris tends to accumulate. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can damage the material.

Step 3: Soak (Optional)

For a deeper clean, you can soak your mouthguard in a solution of water and a denture cleaning tablet or a mouthwash specifically designed for mouthguards. Follow the product instructions carefully regarding soaking time.

Step 4: Rinse and Air Dry

After brushing or soaking, rinse your mouthguard thoroughly with cool water. Allow it to air dry completely on a clean, dry surface or in a designated storage case. Avoid using a towel, as it can harbor bacteria and leave lint behind.

Deep Cleaning Your Night Mouthguard

In addition to daily cleaning, a weekly deep clean is recommended to eliminate stubborn bacteria and biofilm.

How to Deep Clean:

Soaking Solution: Prepare a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar or a specialized mouthguard cleaning solution.
Soaking Time: Soak your mouthguard in the solution for at least 30 minutes, or as directed by the cleaning product instructions.
Brushing: After soaking, gently brush the mouthguard again with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Rinse and Dry: Rinse thoroughly with cool water and air dry completely.

What NOT to Do When Cleaning Your Mouthguard

Don't use harsh chemicals: Avoid abrasive cleaners, bleaches, or harsh detergents. These can damage the mouthguard material.
Don't use hot water: Hot water can warp or distort the shape of your mouthguard.
Don't use the dishwasher: The high heat and harsh detergents in a dishwasher can damage your mouthguard.
Don't store it wet: Always allow your mouthguard to dry completely before storing it to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Storing Your Night Mouthguard

Proper storage is vital for maintaining cleanliness and extending the life of your mouthguard. Store it in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated container specifically designed for mouthguards. Avoid storing it in airtight containers, which can trap moisture.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Products

Many specialized mouthguard cleaning solutions and tablets are available. These products are formulated to effectively clean without damaging the mouthguard material. When choosing a cleaning product, always check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure compatibility with your specific mouthguard type.

Consult your dentist or orthodontist for recommendations on the best cleaning practices and products for your particular mouthguard.

Addressing Persistent Odors

If you notice a persistent odor despite regular cleaning, try soaking your mouthguard in a solution of baking soda and water. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help neutralize unpleasant smells. If the odor persists, consult your dentist or orthodontist.

Conclusion

Maintaining a clean night mouthguard is essential for oral health and the longevity of your device. By following these simple cleaning and storage tips, you can ensure a fresh, hygienic experience and protect your investment. Remember to consult your dentist for personalized advice on mouthguard care.