If you wear a mouth guard for sleeping or teeth grinding, you already know how vital it is for protecting your teeth. But did you know that proper cleaning and maintenance are just as important as wearing it? A dirty or damaged mouth guard can harbor bacteria, cause bad breath, and even lead to oral infections.
Let’s dive into how to keep your mouth guard for teeth grinding fresh, clean, and long-lasting!
Why Cleaning Your Mouth Guard is Essential
Your mouth is home to millions of bacteria. When you wear a mouth guard, it traps moisture and creates a perfect environment for germs to thrive. Without regular cleaning, you risk:
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Bad odors
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Plaque buildup
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Gum disease
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Mouth infections
Keeping your bruxism mouth guard clean ensures better oral health and extends the lifespan of the device.
How to Clean Your Mouth Guard Daily
Here’s a simple daily routine:
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Rinse Immediately After Use
As soon as you remove your mouth guard for sleeping, rinse it thoroughly with warm (not hot) water to wash away saliva and debris. -
Brush Gently
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the mouth guard. Avoid toothpaste because it’s abrasive and can damage the material. -
Dry Completely
Let it air dry completely before storing it. Bacteria thrive in moisture, so drying is crucial. -
Use a Ventilated Case
Store your clean, dry mouth guard in a ventilated case to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.
Weekly Deep Cleaning
Even with daily care, a deeper clean once a week is a must:
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Soak it in a Denture Cleaner
Drop your night mouth guard into a denture-cleaning solution or a non-alcoholic mouthwash mixed with water for 15–30 minutes. -
Use Mild Soap
Alternatively, you can gently clean it using mild, unscented soap and water. -
Rinse Thoroughly
Always rinse well to ensure no cleaner residue is left behind.
How to Clean a Dental Mouth Guard: Do’s and Don’ts
DO:
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Clean it after every use.
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Soak it once a week.
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Store it in a clean, dry, ventilated case.
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Replace your case regularly.
DON’T:
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Use toothpaste or harsh cleaners like bleach.
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Boil your mouth guard unless it's a boil-and-bite type being fitted.
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Leave it in direct sunlight or expose it to high heat.
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Share your mouth guard with anyone else.
How to Mould Mouth Guards (If You Need to Remold)
If your boil and bite mouth guard loses shape or needs refitting:
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Boil water and dip the mouth guard until soft.
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Place it carefully into your mouth.
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Bite down gently and use your fingers to press it against your teeth.
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Rinse with cold water to set the shape.
This process can usually be repeated if needed.
When to Replace Your Mouth Guard
Even with the best care, no mouth guard for teeth grinding lasts forever. Here are signs you need a replacement:
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Visible cracks, tears, or thinning
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Discoloration that doesn’t wash away
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Changes in fit or comfort
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Persistent bad odor
On average, you should replace your mouth guard every 6 to 12 months — or sooner if you notice any damage.
FAQs About Mouth Guard Maintenance
How do I clean my mouth guard if it smells bad?
Soak it in a mixture of vinegar and hydrogen peroxide (equal parts) for 10 minutes, rinse thoroughly, and let it air dry.
Can I use a dishwasher to clean my mouth guard?
No! High heat can warp and ruin your mouth guard.
Is it okay to soak a mouth guard overnight?
Occasional soaking is fine, but don’t leave it submerged for extended periods daily. It can weaken the material.
Final Thoughts
A mouth guard is a fantastic tool for protecting your teeth from grinding, clenching, and damage. But without proper cleaning and maintenance, it can quickly turn from a health helper into a health hazard.
Stick to a simple daily and weekly cleaning routine to keep your sleeping mouth guard fresh, effective, and long-lasting.
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