Whether you use a sports mouthguard to protect your teeth during physical activities or a night guard to prevent grinding while you sleep, proper care is essential. Keeping your mouthguard clean ensures it remains safe and effective. Here’s a guide to the best practices for maintaining your mouthguard.
Why Is Cleaning Your Mouthguard Important?
Cleaning your mouthguard is crucial for several reasons:
- Hygiene: According to a study that appears in the September/October 2007 issue of General Dentistry, the AGD’s clinical, peer-reviewed journal, mouthguards harbor large numbers of bacteria, yeasts and molds that can possibly lead to life and/or health-threatening infectious/inflammatory diseases.
- Health: Neglecting to clean your mouthguard allows germs to accumulate, potentially causing illnesses, tooth decay, gum disease, or other infections.
How to Clean Your Mouthguard
Daily Cleaning Routine
- Before Use: Always brush and floss your teeth before wearing your mouthguard. This prevents food particles and bacteria from transferring to the guard.
- After Use: Wash your mouthguard with warm, soapy water after every use. You can also use a separate toothbrush with mild antibacterial soap for extra cleaning.
- Avoid Toothpaste: Toothpaste is too abrasive and can damage the surface of the mouthguard.
Weekly Deep Cleaning
Once a week, give your mouthguard a more thorough cleaning:
- Denture Cleaner: Soak it in a denture cleaner for a few minutes.
- Mouthwash Solution: Mix mouthwash and water for a disinfecting soak.
- Vinegar and Hydrogen Peroxide: Soak your mouthguard in distilled vinegar for 30 minutes, rinse, then soak it in hydrogen peroxide for another 30 minutes. Always rinse thoroughly with water afterward.
What to Avoid
- Dishwasher: Never place your mouthguard or its case in the dishwasher. The heat can warp the plastic and ruin its shape.
After Cleaning Your Mouthguard
- Drying: Always let your mouthguard air dry completely before storing it in its case. Storing a damp mouthguard creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Drying only takes about 15 minutes and ensures a clean guard.
- Clean the Case: Wash your mouthguard case every few days to prevent bacteria buildup. A dirty case can undo all your efforts to keep your mouthguard clean.
A Cleaner Mouthguard for Better Health
Properly caring for your mouthguard protects your oral health and ensures it lasts longer. By following these steps, you can keep your mouthguard free from harmful bacteria and ready to use whenever you need it. Dr. Lin and his team of dental hygienists are here to help keep your smile looking healthy at Smiles Of Round Lake. You can reach are friendly staff by phone at 847-546-1542 or by email at [email protected].