Mouthguards are fantastic tools as they protect and preserve the teeth from both external forces and our jaws. They’re excellent for mitigating damage and providing a cushion-like structure for the teeth to rest within.
However, an unsanitary mouthguard can be detrimental to the teeth. Bacteria can lead to dental decay, and uncleaned mouthguards are a breeding ground for bacteria. They sit and collect all the germs from within the mouth, and, if not washed, can then transfer those bad bacteria onto the surface of the tooth.
This is especially problematic, as mouthguards are sat against the surface of the tooth for sometimes hours at a time. This then exposes the surface of the tooth to all the unwanted bacteria, increasing the risk of decay.
How to wash a mouthguard
A mouthguard should be rinsed in scenarios where patients are unable to deeply clean, however, we suggest cleaning it thoroughly after every use. This will limit the bacteria accumulating on the mouthguard, keeping the teeth safe.
To clean a mouthguard, a few things will be needed:
- A toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Retainer & mouthguard cleaning tablets
The mouthguard can be cleaned similarly to the natural teeth, simply brushing with a toothbrush and toothpaste will clean most, if not all of the retainer. However, we appreciate some days that just might not feel like it’s doing the job. In this case, you can invest in mouthguard cleaning tablets.
The tablets can be used alongside the toothbrush and toothpaste for an efficient cleaning session. The tablets can also be used daily, should patients want to.
To use the cleaning tablets, you’ll need to get a glass or Tupperware and fill it with warm water. Avoid hot water as it will cause the mouthguard materials to warp. The water should be deep enough for the mouthguard to be covered by water when placed inside the container. Then drop in the tablets and let the mouthguard sit within the solution for between 3-5 minutes.
After the guard has soaked, use a brush, this will help agitate and remove any lingering bacteria. This can then be followed by rinsing the mouthguard in warm or cool water. The used solution can be discarded as it is no longer needed.
How to store/maintain a mouthguard
Maintaining your mouthguard
Most mouthguards will come in a case which is ideal for storing the guard in. This makes it easy to transport from place to place, preventing anything from touching it and spreading more bacteria. However, some may not come with a case. In this scenario, we’d recommend purchasing a case made to store mouthguards.
We appreciate that an accident can happen, the case breaks, or goes missing and you still need somewhere to pop your mouthguard. Don’t fret, you can actually utilise something like a sandwich bag, Tupperware, and worst case, popping it in a glasses container will allow you to get your mouthguard from point A to B without any grime touching it!
Storing your mouthguard
It’s important that if you lose or break your mouthguard case, you replace it. This is because the container is designed to dry out the retainer, shield it from dust, and limit the bacteria that it comes into contact with.
Keeping the mouthguard stored at a dry and cool temperature is essential for reducing bacteria growth. An approach you can take if the mouthguard is dry and within the container, you can place it in the fridge. This helps to keep it clean and bacteria-free, when dry.