Book an Appointment
Book an Appointment

Mouth Guard Care Instructions: Storing, Cleaning, Maintenance

Dental Designs Clinic Singapore
07 Jun, 2024

A night guard shields your teeth from grinding and clenching during sleep, a condition called bruxism,. Teeth grinding can harm your teeth over time if not addressed. A mouth guard for sports cushions your teeth from impacts during physical activities, lowering the risk of dental injuries like fractures or tooth loss.

Therefore, it's only fair that we take proper care of these mouth guards to prolong their lifespan and continue to enjoy the protection they provide for your teeth. Regular cleaning is vital to prevent bacterial growth, which can lead to infections or bad breath. In this article, we'll explore the recommended practices for storing, cleaning and maintaining your mouth guard to keep it in ideal condition.

 

How do I care for my mouth guard?

Things to Note

  • When you start wearing a new mouth guard, your body's response is to produce more saliva. This happens because your brain perceives the mouth guard as a foreign object, similar to food and responds by increasing saliva production. As a result, you might experience some excess saliva in the first couple of weeks, which could lead to drooling, especially while you sleep. This increase in saliva is temporary. So, while it may be a bit uncomfortable at first, it's a natural response that will diminish over time.

  • It's important to remember to bring your night guard with you to your dental appointments, especially if you're scheduled for any restorative work, such as fillings or crowns. Your dentist needs to check how your night guard fits with any new dental work to ensure everything aligns correctly. 

woman-putting-on-night-guard

Instructions for Insertion and Removal

  • Always use two hands whenever you place in or remove your mouth guard. Gently push the mouth guard onto your upper teeth using your fingers, making sure it fits snugly. Avoid twisting or pulling it to one side, as this could damage it.

  • When placing the mouth guard in your mouth, avoid biting down on it. Instead, use your fingers to position it correctly.

  • To remove the mouth guard, use your fingers to carefully pull it away from your teeth, starting from the back.

  • It's recommended to wear your night guard throughout the night for optimal protection. However, if you find it challenging to adjust to wearing it for the entire night initially, you can gradually increase the wearing time. Start by wearing it for a few hours and gradually work up to wearing it for the full night. This gradual approach can help you acclimate to wearing the night guard while still receiving its benefits for your dental health.

 

Things to Avoid

  • To maintain the integrity of your mouth guard, avoid exposing it to extreme heat. This means refraining from placing it in boiling/hot water or a dishwasher. Additionally, be mindful not to leave your mouth guard in a hot car, as the interior temperature can rise significantly, potentially warping the mouth guard.

  • To keep your mouth guard safe and clean when not in use, store it in a designated case or container. Avoid placing it on top of disposable items like tissue paper, as it can be easy to accidentally dispose of the mouth guard along with the tissue.

  • Avoid using or soaking in alcohol-based products to clean your mouth guard, such as mouth guard wash, as they can damage the material over time, reducing its durability and effectiveness. Instead, use gentle cleaning methods suggested by your dentist to maintain the longevity of your mouth guard.
  • Avoid eating or drinking anything other than water while wearing your mouth guard.
 

How do I clean my mouth guard?

It's important to develop a daily cleaning habit to maintain your mouth guard and prevent problems like odours and stains. Our DuraMax mouth guard is known for its high stain resistance. This means that even with regular use, DuraMax mouth guards are less likely to become discoloured or stained compared to others on the market. This feature ensures that your DuraMax mouth guard not only provides excellent protection but also looks great for longer, giving you peace of mind and a confident smile.
 
This simple step helps to remove any debris or saliva. For a deeper clean, gently brush the guard with a soft-bristle toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste. Alternatively, you can use a small amount of soap and water to clean your mouthguard thoroughly. Regular cleaning not only prolongs the life of your mouthguard but also ensures it continues protecting your teeth without compromising your oral health.

Read more about cleaning your mouth guard.

cleaning mouth guard with tooth brush and soap
 

How do I store my mouth guard?

 To store your mouth guard properly, follow these steps.
 

Rinse

After each use, rinse with water to remove any debris or saliva.
 

Dry

Allow your mouth guard to air dry completely before storing it.
 

Store

Place it in a clean, breathable case with drainage holes to prevent moisture buildup. Avoid storing it in a closed container or plastic bag, as this can promote bacterial growth.

 

Keep it cool

Store your mouth guard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid leaving it in hot environments, such as in a car or near a heater.

Pets are often drawn to mouth guards and may see them as toys to play with or chew on. To prevent this, store the mouth guards in a place that is out of reach and inaccessible to pets! By following these steps, you can ensure that your mouth guard stays clean, hygienic and in good condition for longer.
 
Still have questions? Contact us and we will be able to assist you.

 

References

  1. Simeon P, Unkovskiy A, Saadat Sarmadi B, Nicic R, Koch PJ, Beuer F, Schmidt F. Wear resistance and flexural properties of low force SLA- and DLP-printed splint materials in different printing orientations: An in vitro study. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater. 2024 Apr;152:106458. doi: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2024.106458. Epub 2024 Feb 7. PMID: 38364445.
  2. Haddad E Borro L, de Queiroz TS, da Cruz BS, Demachkia AM, Borges ALS, Tribst JPM, Paes Junior TJA. Enhancing mouthguard longevity: Impact of surface treatment against aging from brushing and disinfectant exposure. Dent Traumatol. 2024 Mar 8. doi: 10.1111/edt.12941. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38459667.