Whether you play contact sports like rugby or grind your teeth during your nightly rest, mouthguards are the most effective way to protect your teeth and gums from damage. They serve as buffers, absorbing shocks and safeguarding your teeth from damaging pressure.
However, an unclean mouthguard can damage your teeth and gums by paving the way for decay and gum disease. The good news is that keeping a mouthguard clean is quite easy. In this blog, let’s learn why cleaning mouthguards is important and how to keep them pristine.
Why Should You Clean a Mouthguard?
Mouthguards can safeguard oral health by protecting teeth from damaging impacts. However, an unclean mouthguard can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Mouthguards can harbor bacteria and plaque, leading to potential oral infections.
A clean mouthguard can contribute to overall oral health. Just as brushing your teeth is vital, keeping your mouthguard clean prevents harmful bacteria from entering your mouth.
Additionally, a clean mouthguard fits better and is more comfortable. Residue buildup can lead to a poor user experience and cause bad breath. Proper care can also prolong the life of your mouthguard, making it less likely to wear out or become damaged.
Ways to Clean a Mouthguard
Keeping a mouthguard clean is relatively easy and can be done as part of your oral hygiene routine. Here’s an easy guide on how to keep your mouthguard sparkling.
- Using Toothpaste
Rinse your mouthguard under cool water and use a pea-sized amount of non-abrasive toothpaste on a soft-bristled brush. However, use a different brush than the one you use for your teeth.Begin gently brushing the mouthguard’s surfaces. Gently and thoroughly rinse off the suds under running water. Then, let it air dry on a clean tissue or surface.
- Soap and Water Solution
Rinse your mouthguard in cool water and use a mild, alcohol-free soap, such as dish soap. Gently scrub it with a clean toothbrush until it is soapy, then rinse under cool water. Allow it to air dry completely. - Hydrogen Peroxide and Vinegar
It’s essential to deep clean your mouthguard weekly to disinfect it. Vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are powerful disinfectants that can be used to sanitize mouthguards.When doing a vinegar soak, place the mouthguard in a glass filled with vinegar and let it sit for 30 minutes. After soaking, rinse thoroughly with cool water. Return the mouthguard to the glass, add hydrogen peroxide until covered, and let it sit for another 30 minutes. Rinse with cool water again and allow it to dry completely.
End Note
Like your oral hygiene routine, cleaning a mouthguard is essential for keeping your teeth and gums safe from harmful bacteria. A clean mouthguard not only keeps bacteria and plaque from harming your oral health but can function better and maintain its durability.
If you have any questions about mouthguards, the experts at Nimmi Shine Dental can help. We provide customized mouthguards for your comfort and needs. Dial (858) 999-8550 to schedule an appointment.
