Dirty and neglected mouthguards can form a buildup of bacteria, which can accelerate tooth decay. With this in mind, it is important to be proactive by regularly cleaning your nighttime mouthguard.
Cleaning Each Day is Important
Keeping your mouthguard clean is as easy as forming a new routine. After you have worn your mouthguard all night, take your mouthguard out and give it a good brushing. Remember to brush each surface, just like you brush your teeth. While you will most likely not see food in your mouthguard, it is quite possible that bacteria are present. By creating a routine of brushing it each time you take it out of your mouth, after a while you will not even need to think about it. Buy a travel toothbrush and keep it in your purse or bag for this purpose to continue your habit even when you are away from home.
Is it better to rinse your mouthguard? Rinsing the mouthguard does remove saliva and some plaque, but brushing is superior to rinsing. If you are able to brush your mouthguard, do that over rinsing your mouthguard as you will see better results as keeping any bacteria at bay.
Lastly, make sure you let your mouthguard air dry before you put it back in your mouth. Bacteria likes to breed in wet places, and your mouthguard is no exception. You may need to flip it over once during the day to ensure that it is fully dry before you put it in again at night.
We are Ready to Help You Keep Your Mouthguard Clean
Brushing and rinsing are two great options to keep your mouthguard clean. Contact our office if you suspect your mouthguard has a build-up of bacteria. We want to help you keep your teeth and mouthguard clean.
Dental Blog | Dentist Menasha, WI | Mid Valley Dental, S.C. Michael J. Wockenfus, DDS created a blog to educate the community. It is your resource for all dentistry questions. Learn and read topics in the blog here! Mid Valley Dental, SC, 903 E. Airport Road, Menasha, WI 54952 + (920) 215-4160 + midvalleydental.com + 12/12/2024 + Associated Words: dentist Menasha WI +
Dirty and neglected mouthguards can form a buildup of bacteria, which can accelerate tooth decay. With this in mind, it is important to be proactive by regularly cleaning your nighttime mouthguard.
