A mouthguard is a valuable tool for protecting your teeth, whether you use it for sports or to prevent teeth grinding. However, like any oral appliance, your mouthguard requires regular care to keep it clean, fresh, and effective. Without proper hygiene, mouthguards can harbour bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, potentially leading to infections, bad breath, or damage to your teeth and gums.
We’ll cover the best practices for mouthguard hygiene, helping you maintain a fresh and clean appliance that keeps your smile healthy.
1. Clean Your Mouthguard After Every Use
One of the most important steps in mouthguard care is cleaning it after each use. Cleaning removes saliva, food particles, and bacteria that accumulate during wear.
How to clean your mouthguard:
- Rinse the mouthguard under lukewarm water immediately after use. Avoid hot water, as it can distort the material.
- Gently scrub the mouthguard with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive soap or toothpaste. Use a separate toothbrush for this purpose, as your regular toothbrush may contain residual bacteria.
- After brushing, rinse thoroughly to remove any soap or toothpaste residue.
Consistent cleaning helps reduce the risk of bacterial buildup and keeps your mouthguard fresh.
2. Soak Your Mouthguard Regularly
While daily cleaning is essential, it’s also a good idea to soak your mouthguard once a week in a specialised solution. This helps remove deeper stains and bacteria that may not come off with brushing alone.
Soaking instructions:
- Use an antibacterial mouthguard cleaning solution, which is available at most pharmacies and dental clinics. Follow the instructions on the product for soaking times, as each cleaner varies.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, which can damage the mouthguard material and leave a residue that’s harmful to your mouth.
- Rinse the mouthguard thoroughly after soaking to remove any lingering cleaner.
A regular soak keeps your mouthguard in top condition and provides extra protection against harmful microorganisms.
3. Store Your Mouthguard Properly
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the hygiene and shape of your mouthguard. After cleaning, make sure you store it in a ventilated case to allow air circulation and prevent bacteria growth.
Storage tips:
- Always dry your mouthguard completely before placing it in its case. A damp environment encourages bacterial growth, which can lead to unpleasant odours and contamination.
- Choose a sturdy, ventilated case that protects the mouthguard from dirt and damage. Look for cases with small air holes to keep it dry.
- Keep the case clean by washing it with warm, soapy water every few days. This prevents dust and bacteria from transferring onto your mouthguard.
Avoid storing your mouthguard in direct sunlight, as heat can distort the shape and reduce its effectiveness.
4. Inspect Your Mouthguard Regularly
Over time, your mouthguard may show signs of wear and tear, especially if it’s used frequently for sports or teeth grinding. Regularly inspecting your mouthguard helps you identify cracks, tears, or other signs of damage that could compromise its protection.
What to look for:
- Check for cracks, rough spots, or any thinning areas. Damaged mouthguards can become uncomfortable or even injure your gums or lips.
- If your mouthguard no longer fits comfortably or feels loose, it may need to be replaced or adjusted by a dental professional.
Regular inspection ensures that your mouthguard is in good condition and provides the protection you need.
5. Avoid Chewing on Your Mouthguard
It’s common for people to chew on their mouthguards out of habit, but this can damage the material and reduce its lifespan. Chewing creates small tears and weakens the structure, making it less effective.
To prevent damage:
- Focus on keeping your mouthguard in place without biting down on it. This habit is especially important for those who use mouthguards for grinding, as excessive pressure can wear it down.
- If you find it difficult to resist chewing, talk to your dental professional about alternative options that may be more durable for your needs.
6. Replace Your Mouthguard as Needed
Like any dental appliance, mouthguards have a limited lifespan. Replacing it regularly ensures you’re always getting the full protective benefits.
When to replace your mouthguard:
- If you use a mouthguard for sports, it’s recommended to replace it every season or if it shows visible signs of damage.
- For night-time mouthguards, replacement may be necessary every 6 to 12 months, depending on wear.
- If you’ve recently undergone dental work or orthodontic treatment, you may need a new mouthguard to accommodate changes in your bite.
A fresh mouthguard provides better comfort and protection, so it’s worth keeping an eye on its condition and replacing it when needed.
7. Don’t Share Your Mouthguard
While it might be tempting to share a mouthguard, especially in sports, this is a hygiene risk. Sharing mouthguards can transfer bacteria, viruses, and fungi, increasing the risk of infections.
Encourage others to get their own custom-fitted mouthguards if they’re in need. Properly fitted mouthguards provide better protection and are designed to meet each individual’s needs.
8. Keep Your Mouth Clean
A clean mouth contributes to a clean mouthguard. Practising good oral hygiene reduces the transfer of bacteria to your mouthguard, extending its lifespan and keeping it fresh.
Oral hygiene tips:
- Brush your teeth and floss before putting on your mouthguard, especially if you’re wearing it overnight.
- Rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash before wearing your mouthguard if brushing isn’t possible, such as during sports activities.
Maintaining a clean mouth helps prevent bacteria from building up on your mouthguard, promoting a healthy smile.
9. Consult Your Dental Professional
If you’re unsure about the best cleaning methods for your mouthguard or have questions about its fit, consulting with your dental professional is a good idea. Dentists can offer guidance on proper care and help you troubleshoot any issues.
Regular dental check-ups also provide an opportunity to inspect your mouthguard and make adjustments as needed.
Caring for your mouthguard is essential
By following these best practices, you can ensure your mouthguard stays clean, fresh, and ready to protect your teeth.
If you have any questions about mouthguard care or are considering a custom-fitted mouthguard, South Coast Denture Clinic is here to help. Our expert team can guide you through the proper care and offer personalised solutions for your oral health needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you and keep your smile safe.
