Easy Tips to Care for Your Mouthguard

A mouthguard is one of the simplest yet most important tools for protecting your teeth, whether you’re an athlete, a teeth grinder, or just trying to safeguard your smile. But to keep your mouthguard working effectively (and free of bacteria), it’s essential to clean and care for it properly. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with these easy tips to keep your mouthguard in top shape.

Why Caring for Your Mouthguard Matters

Your mouthguard spends a lot of time in your mouth, making it the perfect environment for bacteria to grow if it’s not cleaned regularly. Improper care can lead to bad odors, discoloration, and even oral infections. Taking just a few minutes to maintain your mouthguard can protect both your oral health and the longevity of the device.

Daily Care Tips for Your Mouthguard

Rinse After Each Use: After wearing your mouthguard, rinse it thoroughly under cool water to remove saliva, food particles, and bacteria. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the material.

Brush Gently: Use a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a non-abrasive toothpaste to clean your mouthguard daily. Gently scrub all surfaces to remove debris and odors.

Let It Dry Completely: After cleaning, allow your mouthguard to air-dry completely before storing it. This helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps it fresh for your next use.

Store It Safely: Keep your mouthguard in a ventilated case to protect it from dust and bacteria while allowing airflow. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or hot environments, as extreme heat can damage its shape.

Deep Clean Weekly: Soak your mouthguard in a denture or mouthguard cleaning solution once a week.

When to Replace Your Mouthguard

Even with proper care, mouthguards don’t last forever. Look for signs of wear, cracks, or discoloration, and replace it as recommended by your dentist (typically every 6 months to a year, depending on use).

Expert Mouthguard Advice at Grand Rapids Family Dentistry in Grand Rapids, MI

At Grand Rapids Family Dentistry, Dr. Kate Palmateer and Dr. Josh Palmateer are here to help you protect your smile. Whether you need a custom mouthguard or advice on caring for one, our team in Grand Rapids, MI, is committed to providing expert guidance and personalized care. Schedule an appointment today, and let’s work together to keep your smile safe and healthy!

Contact Us

Categorised in: Mouthguards/Nightguards