Knowing how to clean mouth guard is basic, really. Most of the time, you won’t need special solutions to keep it hygienic. That is, of course, if you make it a habit to clean it regularly.
However, if this is your first time using a mouth guard, and you really have no idea how to clean it, then read on.
I’ll give you seven different, expert-approved methods.
But first, let me share with you why keeping mouth guards spotless is necessary.
Contents
Why Cleaning a Mouth Guard is Crucial
According to a study, not cleaning the mouth guard enough may cause oral and systemic disease. This study was conducted among 62 football players.
They were asked to use a mouth guard for varying lengths of time with some of them soaking the mouth guard in an antimicrobial solution after each use.
The results of the study show that these mouth guards acquired varying bacteria, yeast, and fungi, which may cause oral lesions. Some of these bacteria also cause pneumonia, urinary tract infections, meningitis, pericarditis, and so on.
On the other hand, the mouth guards that were soaked in an antimicrobial solution had a significant decrease in harmful microorganisms.
In other words: If you don’t sluice it down really nicely, you’re susceptible to a lot of diseases. Rinsing it with water is not enough.
How To Clean Mouth Guard
Now that we know how consequential preserving the mouth guard clean is, it’s time for me to share some of the expert-approved methods on how to clean mouth guard.
Here they are:
Homemade Cleaners
Method 1
What you need:
How to do it:
Note though that cleaning your mouth guard using this method is not enough. You should still use it in combination with the other methods listed below.
Method 2
What you need:
How to do it:
Method 3
What you need:
How to do it:
Word of caution:
If you’re wearing a brace, retainer or any metal in your mouth, you should avoid this method as the acid from the vinegar may cause rapid metal corrosion.
Method 4
What you need:
How to do it:
Method 5
What you need:
How to do it:
Please note that baking soda does not do a very good job of killing bacteria. However, it does get rid of stains and other surface dirt.
Also, baking soda may cause residue buildup over time, so if it’s starting to have a tight fit, you have to change your mouth guard.
Method 6
What you need:
How to do it:
Please remember that bleach is a toxic chemical; hence, you have to rinse the mouth guard carefully after soaking it in this solution.
Nonetheless, bleach does a pretty good job of disinfecting your mouth guard and getting rid of stains. However, it can also discolor your mouth guard.
Mouth Guard Solutions
Method 7
What you need:
How to do it:
Prepare the denture cleaning tablets/powder as instructed. Then soak the mouth guard also according to instructions.
The best thing about these cleaning solutions is they taste nice. So even if you don’t rinse them off after soaking your mouth guard, you’ll have that fresh and clean feeling in your mouth.
However, some of these may also cause discoloration, so don’t be surprised if your red mouth guard starts turning pink (Pink ain’t that bad, eh?).
Professional Solutions
Method 8
What you need:
How to do it:
Use the device according to package instructions.
There are several brands and models of the dental sanitizing device and they come with different instructions. Also, this is a more expensive option compared with the solutions mentioned above.
However, if you’re always on the go or in a hurry, get this. Dental sanitizing devices are very portable and can disinfect your mouth guard in minutes.
Knowing how to clean mouth guard with these devices is also easy. Most of the time, you don’t have to add tablets, powders, or other solutions. The device may be used as is.
Method 9
What you need:
How to do it:
The next time you visit your dentist, ask them about having your mouth guard cleaned. Most would be happy to clean it for you for free.
What I like about this option is you’re surely in good hands because these people know exactly how to clean mouth guard.
How do I clean my night guard
Additional Tips on How to Clean Mouth Guard
At a minimum, you should brush your mouth guard every time you clean it. This is to ensure plaque buildup will be lessened if not avoided altogether. And make sure to use a soft bristled brush to avoid scraping or scratching your mouth guard.
Next, when not in use make sure your mouth guard is kept dry and in a dry place. Leaving it wet makes it highly susceptible to molds, bacteria, and others.
Also, you have to test the solutions first before soaking your mouth guard completely. This is because some solutions may be too harsh for your mouth guard. So try soaking a small part of it first before submerging your mouth guard completely.
Lastly, all soaks mentioned above should be used at room temperature to avoid damaging your mouth guard.
Caring for the Mouth Guard
Aside of course from knowing how to clean mouth guard, you should also master how to take care of it.
To Sum It Up
Keeping your mouth guard in its tip-top shape is crucial. Otherwise, you’re at risk of several oral diseases and even systemic ones. Luckily, cleaning it is not that hard.
As outlined above, there are different methods on how to clean mouth guard. Most of these methods need ingredients and materials that are readily available in your home, but some require store-bought or professional solutions. Choosing the best one merely depends on your budget and the time you have.
But…
Remember that keeping it clean won’t suffice. You have to know how to take care of it, too, so you can maximize its lifespan.
If, however, you are having trouble choosing the best method, bring it up during your next dentist appointment.
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