How to Clean a Mouthguard (Step-by-Step Guide)
Do you use a mouthguard? You need to keep it clean. A dirty mouthguard can make you sick. This guide will help you clean your mouthguard the right way.
Why Cleaning Your Mouthguard Matters
Your mouthguard gets dirty every time you use it. It has your spit on it. It can grow germs if you don't clean it.
Look at these facts:
- 65% of people who don't clean their mouthguards well get germs and fungus on them
- These germs can make your mouth sick
- A dirty mouthguard can make your breath smell bad
- Germs on your mouthguard can give you gum problems
If you don't clean your mouthguard right, they won't last as long. Heat, stains, and damage can ruin them.
Daily Cleaning Routine
You need these tools to clean your mouthguard:
- Soft toothbrush (not hard)
- Mild soap (not strong)
- Cool water (not hot)
Step 1: Rinse Right Away
Rinse your mouthguard as soon as you take it out of your mouth. This gets rid of spit and food bits.
Did you know? Only 28% of sports players rinse their mouthguards after using them. This leads to 3 times more smell problems!
Step 2: Brush It Clean
Gently brush your mouthguard with soap and water. Do not use hot water! Hot water can make your mouthguard change shape.
Step 3: Let It Dry
Let your mouthguard air-dry all the way before you put it in its case. A wet mouthguard in a closed case can grow mold.
Deep Cleaning Methods
Daily cleaning is good, but your mouthguard needs a deep clean too. Here are ways to deep clean your mouthguard:
Vinegar Soak
- Mix same parts white vinegar and water
- Put your mouthguard in this mix for 30 minutes
- Rinse well with cool water
Vinegar kills 90% of germs on your mouthguard. That's good, but not the best.
Denture Cleanser
- Fill a cup with cool water
- Drop in a denture tablet (like Polident®)
- Let your mouthguard sit in it for 10-15 minutes
- Rinse well
Fact: People who use denture tablets to clean their mouthguards don't have to buy new ones as much. A study showed 82% of users had their mouthguards last longer.
Hydrogen Peroxide
- Get 3% hydrogen peroxide (the kind at the store)
- Put your mouthguard in it for 10 minutes
- Rinse well with water
Studies show: A 10-minute soak in 3% hydrogen peroxide kills 99% of germs. That's better than vinegar!
What Not To Do With Your Mouthguard
Don't do these things to your mouthguard:
❌ Don't use hot water or boil it
❌ Don't put it in the dishwasher
❌ Don't use hard toothpaste on it
❌ Don't leave it wet in a closed case
❌ Don't leave it in the sun or a hot car
Did you know? 15% of warped mouthguards got that way from wrong cleaning (like using hot water).
Storing Your Mouthguard Properly
Where you keep your mouthguard is very important.
- Use a hard case with holes so air can get in
- Make sure the case is clean too
- Keep it away from pets who might chew it
- Keep it out of hot places
Bad storage fact: 38% of mouthguards that were not stored well had mold on them. This mold can make you sick.
Mouthguard Problems and How to Fix Them
Stains
If your mouthguard has stains, you can:
- Mix baking soda and water to make a paste
- Gently brush the paste on the stains
- Rinse well
Bad Smell
Is your mouthguard smelly? Try this:
- Mix a bit of lemon juice with water
- Let your mouthguard sit in it for 5 minutes (no longer!)
- Rinse well
Cracks or Bad Color
If your mouthguard has cracks or the color has changed a lot, you need a new one. A broken mouthguard can hurt your mouth.
When to Ask a Dentist
Call your dentist if:
- Your mouthguard still has a bad smell after cleaning
- It has mold you can't get off
- It doesn't fit right anymore
- You see cracks or other damage
Mouthguard Cleaning Chart
Here's a quick guide to keep your mouthguard clean:
| When | What to Do | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| After each use | Rinse with cool water | Gets rid of spit and food bits |
| Daily | Brush with mild soap and water | Keeps germs away |
| Once a week | Deep clean with hydrogen peroxide or denture tablet | Kills 99% of germs |
| Every 3-6 months | Check for damage | Makes sure it's safe to use |
Facts About Dirty Mouthguards
Look at these facts about dirty mouthguards:
| Problem | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Bacterial growth | 65% of mouthguards not cleaned right grow bad germs |
| Early wear out | Mouthguards not cleaned each night wear out 40% faster |
| Cost | You might spend $120-$200 more each year on new mouthguards if you don't clean them |
| Bad smells | People who don't rinse after use have 3x more smell problems |
| Mold risk | 38% of mouthguards in wet cases grow mold |
Questions People Ask
Can I use mouthwash to clean my mouthguard?
Yes, but use alcohol-free mouthwash. Alcohol can hurt your mouthguard. Rinse well after.
How often should I deep clean my mouthguard?
- Sports guards: 1-2 times each week
- Night guards: 2-3 times each week
Can I use toothpaste on my mouthguard?
No. Most toothpaste is too rough. It can scratch your mouthguard. These scratches give germs places to hide.
How do I know if my mouthguard needs to be replaced?
Look for:
- Cracks or tears
- Bad smell that won't go away
- Holes or thin spots
- It feels loose or wrong in your mouth
Can I share my mouthguard with someone else?
No! Never share mouthguards. They have your germs on them. Dental professionals say sharing can spread sickness.
Why You Should Clean Your Mouthguard
Your mouthguard keeps your teeth safe. But a dirty mouthguard can be bad for you.
Good mouthguard cleaning:
- Keeps germs away
- Makes it last longer
- Saves you money
- Keeps your breath fresh
- Keeps your mouth healthy
People who clean their dental appliances right spend less on new ones. One study shows they save $120-$200 each year!
Last Tips for Mouthguard Care
- Clean your mouthguard every time you use it
- Deep clean it at least once a week
- Let it air-dry before you put it away
- Keep it in a case with air holes
- Check it for damage often
- Don't use hot water or strong cleaners
- If you see mold, clean it right away or get a new one
Remember: A clean mouthguard means a healthy mouth!
Your mouthguard helps keep your teeth safe. Take good care of it, and it will take good care of you.
Now you know how to clean your mouthguard the right way!
