If you wear a mouthguard while playing sports, you already know how important it is for protecting your teeth. A properly fitted mouthguard can help cushion impacts and reduce the risk of injuries to your teeth, lips, tongue, and jaw.
But what happens after the game? If your mouthguard goes straight from your mouth into your sports bag, it may be getting a lot less care than it deserves. Fortunately, keeping it clean and in good condition is relatively simple.
Rinse Your Mouthguard After Every Use
Start by rinsing your mouthguard with cool water as soon as you take it out. This helps remove saliva, debris, and other buildup before it has a chance to dry onto the surface.
You can also gently brush the mouthguard with a soft toothbrush. Follow the cleaning recommendations provided with your specific mouthguard, since materials can vary. Avoid hot water, which can warp some mouthguards and affect their fit.
Give It a Deeper Clean
Your mouthguard needs more than an occasional rinse. Regularly cleaning it with cool, soapy water can help remove buildup and keep it fresh. Some mouthguards may also be compatible with specialized dental-appliance or denture-cleaning products.
If you use a cleaning solution, always follow the product’s directions and your dentist’s recommendations. Certain chemicals or prolonged soaking may damage some types of mouthguards.
Let It Dry Completely
Don’t immediately seal a wet mouthguard inside its case. Instead, allow it to air dry completely before storing it. Keeping the mouthguard dry can help limit bacterial growth.
Once it’s dry, place it in a sturdy, ventilated container. The ventilation allows air to circulate while protecting the mouthguard from getting crushed or damaged in your gym bag.
And don’t forget about the case! Clean it regularly so you’re not putting a freshly cleaned mouthguard into a dirty container.
Protect It From Heat and Pets
Mouthguards can be surprisingly vulnerable when they’re outside your mouth. Don’t leave yours in direct sunlight, near a heat source, or in hot water. Excessive heat can alter its shape and compromise the fit.
It’s also a good idea to keep your mouthguard somewhere your pets can’t reach it. To a dog, an expensive custom mouthguard may look suspiciously like a chew toy!
Know When It’s Time for a Replacement
Even a well-maintained mouthguard won’t last forever. Check it regularly for cracks, tears, holes, significant wear, or changes in its shape. A mouthguard that no longer fits properly may not provide the protection you need.
Children and teenagers may need replacements more frequently as their mouths grow and change.
One particularly helpful habit is to bring your mouthguard to your dental appointment at the end of every sports season. Your dentist can evaluate its fit and condition and let you know whether it’s still providing appropriate protection or should be replaced.
Keep Your Mouthguard Game-Ready
A few minutes of cleaning and proper storage after every practice or game can help keep your mouthguard fresh, comfortable, and ready for your next competition.
Taking care of your protective gear is another simple way to take care of your smile.
About the Practice
Dr. Spiro Saati provides comprehensive dental care with an emphasis on preventive dentistry and helping patients protect their oral health. The practice offers preventive services and guidance designed to help patients maintain healthy smiles, including care related to mouthguards and other protective measures. Patients can work with the dental team to choose appropriate strategies for protecting their teeth both at home and during athletic activities.
Call us at (978) 531-2185 or schedule your appointment online