How to Clean Night Guards [Expert Tips and Advice]
Are you tired of dealing with the discomfort and potential health hazards of a dirty night guard? Keeping your night guard clean is essential for good oral hygiene and to avoid unpleasant side effects like bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay. Fortunately, it's easy to maintain the integrity of your night guard with just a few simple steps. In this expert guide, we'll provide tips and advice on how to clean your night guard safely and effectively. So read on for our expert tips.
Dirty Night Guards
Keeping your night guard clean is essential for good oral hygiene and to avoid unpleasant side effects like bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay. Fortunately, it's easy to maintain the integrity of your night guard with just a few simple steps. In this expert guide, we'll provide tips and advice on how to clean your night guard safely and effectively. So read on for our expert tips.
HAZARDS OF A DIRTY NIGHT GUARD:
Dirty night guards can cause bacterial infections: Bacteria, yeast, and mold thrive in the dark and moist environment of the mouth, which can lead to sore throats, nausea, colds, flu, chest infections, asthma, strep and staph infections, gum infections and tooth decay if not kept under control.
To maintain good oral health, it’s important to inspect your night guard for germs that could be living there.
Under a microscope seven common things can be found on a dirty night guard:
- Oral Bacteria (Streptococcus mutans or Porphyromonas gingivalis)
- Candida Albicans Fungus which can cause oral thrush
- Mold which can lead to dental problems
- Mucus which can change color signaling potential infection
- Plaque and tartar with their associated bacteria causing tooth decay or gum disease
- Staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria which spreads through saliva or blood contact.
Daily Cleaning and Deep Cleaning
It is recommended that you deep clean your dental guard every two weeks. Cleaning your guard every two weeks will effectively remove bacteria buildup. Additionally, you should give it a quick wash after every use. This will protect against infection and discomfort during wear.
Tips for Cleaning Your Night Guard
- A toothbrush with soft bristles: Don't Use A Toothbrush With Hard Bristles - Doing this can scratch the surface of the night guard creating tiny crevices that will harbor bacteria, plaque, and many other germs. Using a soft toothbrush will prevent any damage to your night guard while you clean it.
- Anti-microbial soap: Using anti-microbial soap and NOT vinegar, dish soap or any other substance is also essential. This type of soap contains ingredients that kill bacteria and other germs that may be living on your night guard. When selecting an anti-microbial soap, it is important to choose one that is gentle and non-abrasive to prevent damage to your night guard. Some soaps are too harsh and can cause discoloration or weaken the material of your night guard.
Step-by-Step Instructions on Cleaning a Night Guard
- Rinse your night guard with warm water or cool water to remove any loose debris or saliva. It's also important to note that using boiling or hot water can damage your guard.
- Apply a small amount of anti-microbial soap to your soft toothbrush, and brush your night guard carefully. Remember to be gentle and not apply too much pressure, as this could cause scratches or other damage.
- Rinse the mouth guard thoroughly with cool water to remove any remaining soap. Again, be gentle and take care not to damage the night guard.
- You can either gently dry your night guard with a soft cloth or let it air dry on a clean surface. Avoid using a paper towel or any abrasive cloth that could scratch the surface of your night guard. It's important to let it dry completely before storing it.
- Store your night guard in a clean, dry container. Avoid storing it in a damp or enclosed space that could promote bacterial growth.
By following these simple steps and using the appropriate items, you can ensure your night guard remains clean and effective in protecting your teeth.
When To Replace A Night Guard?
It may be time to replace your night guard if it has stains, yellow spots, and buildup that cannot be cleaned. ClearClub recommends replacing your guard at least every six months. However, if you are concerned with the cost of a new night guard ClearClub offers an affordable solution!
Where can I find affordable night guards?
ClearClub's custom-made dental guards start at only $95 and are also FDA-approved! You can also purchase your new night guard with a renewal plan! Simply click Shop Now below to check out our renewal plans now!
ClearClub’s Night Guards:
At ClearClub, we pride ourselves on delivering the very best in dental protection, and our custom-fitted night guards are no exception. Whether you're looking to alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with teeth grinding and clenching or simply looking to replace a dirty worn out night guard, we provide unmatched performance and comfort. This will allow you to wake up feeling refreshed and clean knowing you're not using a dirty bacteria-infested night guard.
Since ClearClub offers a variety of options, you can take a quiz to find out which custom guard is perfect for you!
