How to Clean a Mouthguard

Are you wondering the best way to care for your mouthguard?

Your mouthguard should be as hygienic as possible to keep it safe for use. It has to withstand being ground and bitten by your teeth daily, so it needs to be strong.

Fortunately, your mouthguard can harbor germs. That’s why, if you want to extend the lifespan of the mouthguard, maintaining good hygiene is essential.

However, do you know how to clean a mouthguard? If not, we’ve got the answer, and it’s a must-read. Here’s everything you need to know:

Gather Tools and Equipment

When cleaning a mouthguard or night guard, it is important to gather all the tools and equipment before beginning. This will ensure that the job is done correctly.

Once you have gathered all the tools and equipment, you are ready to clean your mouthguard. You’ll need:

  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Mouthwash
  • Denture cleaner
  • baking soda
  • Disinfectant wipes
  • Cup or container 
  • Clean, dry towel
  • Toothpick 

Always remember, if you suffer from any type of dental issue like grinding teeth or others, it is important to have all the items needed to clean your mouthguard regularly. If grinding teeth or other dental issues have become severe, contact a professional. A professional can provide custom-made grinding mouthguards and advice on how to clean them.

Remove the Mouthguard From Your Mouth

When removing the mouthguard from your mouth, first wet it with warm water. This will help to loosen any dirt or debris that may be stuck to it.

Next, take a deep breath and use your front teeth to grip the bottom of the mouthguard. Slowly exhale as you pull the mouthguard out of your mouth.

The guard should come out easily. If it doesn’t, try twisting it back and forth before removing it, or you can try using a pair of tweezers.

Rinse the Mouthguard With Warm Water

When rinsing your mouthguard with warm water, be sure to do so thoroughly. You want to make sure the water is not too hot or too cold. This will help ensure that it doesn’t damage the plastic.

Use your hands to swish the water around the mouthguard. This will help ensure that any food particles, saliva, and other debris are removed.

Soak the Mouthguard in Warm Water

Begin by filling a cup or container with warm water and then submerging the mouthguard in it. Let the mouthguard sit in the warm water for 10-15 minutes until it softens.

Once it’s softened, remove it from the warm water and rinse it off with cold water. This will help to remove any excess dirt or residue.

Add an Antibacterial Cleaning Solution

Begin by pouring a small amount of antibacterial cleaning solution into a cup or container and submerging the mouthguard. Let the guard sit in the solution for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it with cold water. Repeat this process twice for a thorough cleaning.

To ensure an extra level of cleanliness, rinse the guard off with mouthwash. To ensure the guard remains clean and odor-free, soak it in an antibacterial cleaning solution once a week.

Brush With a Soft Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Begin by wetting the mouthguard with water, and then add a small amount of toothpaste to the bristles of the brush. Brush the guard, paying particular attention to the crevices and grooves. After you have given the guard a thorough brushing, rinse it well with cold water.

The toothbrush should have soft bristles, as hard bristles can irritate the delicate areas of the mouth. The toothpaste should be gentle, non-abrasive, and designed for use with a mouthguard. Take care to replace the brush after 10-14 days, as a dirty brush can contaminate the mouthguard.

Use Baking Soda for Deodorizing

Begin by making a paste of 1/4 cup baking soda with a few drops of cold water. Apply the paste to the mouthguard and allow it to sit for 1 minute. Once the paste has settled in, rinse the mouthguard again with cold water.

Use a cloth to wipe the surface of the guard and let it air dry completely before use. This method may be repeated each time you clean your mouthguard.

Clean With Distilled White Vinegar

Begin by filling a bowl with 2/3 cup of distilled white vinegar and 1/3 cup warm water. Submerge the mouthguard in the vinegar and water mixture and allow it to soak for 5-10 minutes. For hard-to-remove debris, consider soaking the mouthguard for longer periods.

Once finished soaking, remove the mouthguard. Then, rinse the mouthguard with cold water before allowing it to dry.

Disinfect With Hydrogen Peroxide or Rubbing Alcohol

If you are using hydrogen peroxide, pour some into a bowl and stir until it is completely mixed. Submerge the mouthguard in the solution for 5 minutes, then rinse it with cold water.

If you are using rubbing alcohol, submerge the mouthguard in the solution for 5 minutes, then rinse it with cold water. Make sure to fully dry the mouthguard with a clean towel before using it.

Rinse Again and Dry With a Soft Towel

Begin by blotting off any excess water with the towel, then lay the mouthguard flat on the towel. Rub the towel on the surface until it is completely dry.

If needed, you can use a blow dryer on its lowest setting to ensure that the mouthguard is completely free of moisture. This process should keep your mouthguard safe and ready to use.

Store the Cleaned Mouthguard in a Safe Place

A cleaned mouthguard should be stored in a dry, airtight, and waterproof container or bag. It should be kept away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and potential sources of contamination, such as food or furniture. It should not be stored in a damp environment, as this could cause bacteria to grow on the mouthguard.

The Best Way How to Clean a Mouthguard

Overall, cleaning a mouthguard or night guard does not require a lot of effort. By following the steps on how to clean a mouthguard detailed above, you can easily and quickly keep your mouthguard clean and hygienic.

To ensure the best protection, cleaning your mouthguard after each use will go a long way in keeping it in the best condition. Show your teeth some love by taking proper mouthguard and dental care today!

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