Many people use night guards to protect their teeth from grinding or clenching while they sleep. They can also help relieve jaw pain from TMJ.
But just like your teeth, your night guard needs regular cleaning. A dirty night guard can harbor bacteria, leading to bad breath and potential health problems. Plus, proper cleaning helps your night guard last longer.
Read on for a comprehensive guide on how to clean your night guard and keep it in top shape.
Daily Cleaning Routine for Your Night Guard
To keep your night guard in tip-top shape, it’s important to clean it every day.
Rinsing After Each Use
As soon as you take your night guard out, rinse it well in lukewarm water to get rid of any saliva or food particles. Hot water can damage the material, so stick with lukewarm.
Gentle Brushing with Mild Soap
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush that you only use for your night guard. Put a tiny bit of mild, non-abrasive soap on the brush. Don’t use toothpaste, as it can scratch the surface.
Gently brush every part of the night guard.
Thorough Drying and Proper Storage
After you’ve cleaned it, dry the night guard completely with a clean cloth. Most night guards need about 15 to 30 minutes to fully air dry.
Store it in a clean, dry case to keep bacteria from growing and to protect it from damage. Keep the case in a cool, dry spot away from heat and moisture.
Deep cleaning: Removing stains and bacteria
Sometimes a night guard needs more than just a quick rinse. If you’re looking to remove stains or kill bacteria, here are some methods you can try:
Denture cleaning tablets
- Dissolve a denture cleaning tablet in water, following the instructions on the package.
- Soak your night guard for the amount of time recommended on the package (usually 15 to 30 minutes).
- Give it a thorough rinse with water.
- Dry it completely before you store it.
Vinegar and hydrogen peroxide solution
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and 3% hydrogen peroxide.
- Soak the night guard for about half an hour. Keep an eye on it while it’s soaking.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
- Dry completely before storing.
This method can help get rid of stubborn stains and kill any lingering bacteria.
Baking soda paste
- Make a paste of baking soda and water.
- Gently scrub the night guard with the paste using a soft toothbrush.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
- Dry completely before storing.
What NOT to do when cleaning your night guard
You may be tempted to clean your night guard with common household items. But you should avoid these mistakes:
- Boiling it. Heat can damage the material and change its shape.
- Using abrasive cleaners or toothpaste. These products can scratch the night guard, creating tiny crevices where bacteria can thrive.
- Soaking it in water. Leaving it in water for long periods can help bacteria grow.
- Storing it wet. Humidity encourages bacteria and mold growth.
- Using mouthwash that contains alcohol. Alcohol can break down the material that the night guard is made of.
Don’t forget the case!
It’s vital to clean your night guard’s case regularly. Otherwise, the case can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria.
I recommend washing the case weekly with warm, soapy water. Be sure to scrub it well!
Always allow the case to dry completely before putting your night guard away. Every now and then, you might also want to disinfect it with a diluted vinegar solution.
How to prevent bad breath
A dirty night guard can definitely make your breath stink. The bacteria that builds up on it releases foul odors.
The best way to fix this is with good oral hygiene:
- Brush and floss regularly.
- Use a mouthwash to kill bacteria.
- Get regular dental checkups. Your dentist can professionally clean your teeth and remove plaque.
If you are concerned about bad breath, talk to your dentist.
When should you replace your night guard?
With proper care, a night guard usually lasts around five years. However, if you grind your teeth heavily or don’t clean your night guard properly, you might have to replace it sooner.
Here are some signs that your night guard needs replacing:
- Cracks or tears
- A loose fit
- A bad odor that doesn’t go away after cleaning
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing to use to clean a night guard?
The best thing to clean a night guard is usually a combination of gentle methods. A soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap are a good start for removing surface debris. You can also use denture cleaner tablets or a specialized night guard cleaning solution for a deeper clean. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly with cool water afterward.
What does vinegar do for a night guard?
Vinegar, especially white vinegar, can act as a natural disinfectant. Soaking your night guard in a diluted vinegar solution (equal parts vinegar and water) for about 30 minutes can help kill bacteria and loosen stubborn buildup. Remember to rinse it extremely well afterward, as the taste of vinegar isn’t exactly pleasant! And don’t use vinegar too often, as the acidity could potentially degrade the material over time.
How do you clean a mouthguard without damaging it?
To clean a mouthguard without damaging it, avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or strong alcohol-based cleaners. Also, skip the boiling water – high temperatures can warp the shape. Stick to gentle methods like brushing with a soft toothbrush and mild soap, or using a denture cleaner solution. Always rinse thoroughly and let it air dry in a clean case to prevent bacteria buildup.
Summary
Keeping your night guard clean is essential. To maintain good oral health, rinse it after each use, and clean it thoroughly every day using a soft toothbrush, mild soap, or a denture cleaner.
With consistent cleaning and proper storage, your night guard can protect your teeth for a long time.