6 Easy Ways to Clean Mouthguards

The mouthguard, or some of us know it as a nightguard is a handy tooth protection tool that is easy to use and safe. But you should keep this little thing clean and fresh. How? Let us tell you 6 interesting ways to learn how to clean mouthguards easily.

Why Should We Clean the Mouthguard?

Most people who use this dental tool have this question, and they don’t even know how to clean mouthguards on their own. In the following, we prepare some reasons for you to see why we should clean mouthguards:

• They can stack up bacteria, saliva, and food particles over time, so cleaning them prevents the growth of harmful microorganisms.
• If dirty, they can cause unpleasant odors in your mouth.
• Regular cleaning helps maintain the quality and integrity of the mouthguard material, making it last longer.
• Cleaning a mouthguard prevents staining and discoloration of it.
• A clean dental tool after sleep reduces the risk of oral infections or irritations.
• A clean will fit better and provide better protection for your teeth.
• Poor oral hygiene can impact your overall health, so keep your dental tool clean for better general health.

If you don’t have time to clean your mouthguard or you don’t know how to do it, let the professionals give you the best cleaning mouthguard treatments in Minnesota and care about your dental health.

6 Ways To Clean Your Mouthguard Daily Or Weekly

From using simple household items like toothbrushes and mild soaps to specialized cleaning solutions, you’ll find easy and practical ways to clean your personal dental tool. Here are 6 ways how to clean mouthguards at home daily or weekly:

Soap and Water

Use mild, unscented soap and lukewarm water to clean your mouthguard daily. This method effectively removes bacteria and debris without harsh chemicals, making it safe for daily use.

1. Mix soap and lukewarm water.
2. Gently scrub and clean the mouthguard with your fingers or a soft toothbrush.
3. Then, rinse the whole guard.
4. Let it dry and use it.

Mouthwash

This way helps to kill bacteria and leaves your dental guard fresh. Also, be careful to avoid alcohol-based mouthwash as it can damage the material, then rinse well with cool water after soaking.

1. Prepare a bowl of mouthwash.
2. Put it in there and let the guard rest for 30 minutes.
3. Rinse your mouthguard with cool water.
4. Let it dry and use it.

Toothbrush and Toothpaste

The third way to keep your mouthguard safe and sound is to brush it daily with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.

This method is just like how you clean your teeth, effectively removing plaque and food leftovers.

1. Put some toothpaste on the mouthguard.
2. Brush it slowly and clean the leftovers.
3. Rinse the mouthwash with lukewarm water.
4. Leave it to get dry.

Baking Soda

In the fourth place, we have baking soda, and here’s how to use it weekly. Baking soda naturally deodorizes and disinfects, making it great for removing stubborn odors and stains.

1. Mix a paste of baking soda and water.
2. Gently brush this onto your mouthguard.
3. Then, rinse well.

Dental Sanitizing Devices

This way is a modern one, and it’s better than the others, but you know, it’s so EXPENSIVE. These devices use sonic or ultraviolet light to clean your mouthguard and it can be 99.9% effective, so you can say that dental sanitizing devices are a real deal.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Vinegar

Last but not least is hydrogen peroxide and vinegar. This two-step process disinfects and removes tough buildup, but don’t use it too often as it can be harsh on the material.

1. Clean your mouthguard with water.
2. Put it in a glass and pour some vinegar to cover it for 30 minutes.
3. Clean it with water and again do the previous step; put hydrogen peroxide instead.
4. Rinse the dental guard and let it dry to be usable.

Remember to always rinse your mouthguard before and after use, regardless of which cleaning method you choose. Store it in a clean, dry container with ventilation holes to prevent bacterial growth between uses.

How Often Should I Clean My Mouthguard?

Cleaning the mouthguard mostly depends on how often you use it. Normally, we recommend you clean this tool as we mention:

1. For daily use, we suggest cleaning the mouthguard twice a day. Once in the morning and once after wearing it.
2. For deep cleaning, you should clean these guards weekly in the ways that we mentioned before. Make sure that you do this once a week, not more or less.

Best Mouthguards and Cleaning Services in Minnesota

If you care about your dental health and want the best service available in Minnesota, we are here to serve you. Our family of professional dentists is waiting for you in New Brighton, Minnesota, to bring you comfort and oral health. Schedule your appointment today and discover personalized care in a welcoming environment. Also, you can call (651) 633-1311 to book your appointment. If you still don’t know how to clean mouthguards, we can help you.

FAQs

Can I use hot water to clean my mouthguard?

No, avoid hot water. It can change the shape of it, ruining its fit and effectiveness. Stick to cool or lukewarm water for cleaning and rinsing.

How often should I replace my mouthguard?

Replace this tool every 6 months to a year or sooner if you notice signs of wear, like holes, thinning material, or a loose fit. Athletes who use this dental guard frequently may need to replace them more often.

Is it okay to share my mouthguard?

Never share your dental tool. It’s a personal item that comes into contact with your saliva and mouth bacteria. Sharing can spread infections and diseases.

Can I clean my mouthguard with a denture cleaner?

Denture cleaner is a good way to clean mouthguards at home. While denture cleaners work well, they’re often too harsh for mouthguards. They can damage the material over time. Stick to gentler cleaning methods.

Why does my mouthguard smell bad?

A smelly mouthguard usually indicates bacterial growth. Step up your cleaning routine and consider using an antibacterial mouthwash soak. If the smell persists, it’s time for a new one.