Make a habit of deep cleaning your night guard as least once a month. This can be done several ways. The first is by using an over-the-counter nonabrasive denture cleaner. Simply place your night guard in a glass or bowl with water and allow the cleaner to dissolve completely into the water.
How often should you wash a mouthguard?
You can keep the mouth guard case clean by washing it every few days with regular dish soap. Avoid putting it in the dishwasher though, as the high temperatures could warp the plastic. Allow the case to dry dry out after washing it to prevent bacteria growth, and replace it with a new one every 6 months to a year.
How do you clean a night guard?
You should rinse your night guard with warm water each morning immediately after removing it from your mouth. After rinsing, use a toothbrush to gently scrub away any lingering plaque or saliva. You may use a soft toothpaste as well, if you wish (abrasive toothpaste will scratch the plastic).
Can I soak my mouthguard in mouthwash?
Submerging your night guard in mouthwash will help kill the germs left on your mouthguard. After you have submerged it in mouthwash rinse it with cool water. Do NOT soak your night guard in mouthwash, as that may cause damage. … Gently brush your mouthguard and then rinse with cool water.
How long do night guards last?
On average, a night guard can last between 5 and 10 years. These times can vary based on the severity of your teeth grinding and whether or not you’re taking other steps to try and prevent it.
Can I soak my mouthguard in vinegar?
Soak the night guard in distilled white vinegar for at least 30 minutes. After soaking, rinse the night guard and the bowl with water. Then soak the night guard in hydrogen peroxide for at least 30 more minutes. Once finished, rinse with water and allow the night guard to dry completely.
Can you drink water with a night guard in?
Do not eat or drink (except water) with your guard in. Be sure you floss and brush thoroughly prior to placement as food and bacteria can become trapped between your teeth and guard and increase your risk of decay an stain the guard.
Can night guards ruin your teeth?
Often, deep grooves will eventually form in the night guard from the force of the grinding. The night guard prevents this same force from causing damage to the teeth. Without a night guard, enamel can be worn down excessively, leading to tooth sensitivity.
Can my night guard make me sick?
It’s these germs that can be found on night guards which can lead to sore throats, nausea, colds, flu, chest infections and even asthma, strep and staph infections. Just to top it all off, your night guard also has the potential to be a reservoir for bacteria that can cause gum infections and promote tooth decay.
What is the white stuff on my mouth guard?
The white layer is a buildup of calcium from your saliva. Plaque and tartar from your mouth stick to your retainer too if you’re not cleaning it on a regular basis. Fill a cup with vinegar and submerge your retainer. In a few minutes, brush the retainer thoroughly.
Can my mouthguard make me sick?
Actually, we do! According to a study published by American General Dentistry (AGD), mouth guards can be the breeding ground to life-threatening bacteria, yeast and mold. Germs found in mouthguards can lead to strep and staph infections, which could leave the entire team on the bench.