If you are an active person or play a lot of sports, then you likely already know the importance of a mouthguard. It helps keep your smile protected by absorbing any blows you take to the face. In order to keep this handy oral appliance in great shape, you need to take care of it properly to ensure it stays the best it can. Here is a quick guide on how you can do that to get the most use out of it for years to come.
1.) Properly Clean Your Mouthguard
It’s important that you clean your mouthguard regularly to stop bacteria from building up. If not, then you can increase your risk of infection or even bad breath. Rinse it with cold or lukewarm water before and after you wear it.
Once you are done with your activity, you will need to take some time to brush it. Using a soft-bristle toothbrush and mild soap, give it a good scrub and wash away all the suds. Lastly, let it air-dry.
2.) Store Your Mouthguard Safely
When you aren’t using your mouthguard, be sure to put it in its case. This will help you know where it is instead of losing it on a counter. Not only that, but what your dentist gave you to store it in is also ventilated. This helps prevent any dust and bacteria from getting on it, compared to if you left it out or inside a closed container.
You should also keep your case clean! You can wash it by hand every few days with regular dishwashing soap. Like with your mouthguard, don’t use hot water as it can warp the plastic. Let it dry to avoid bacterial growth!
3.) Replace Your Mouthguard When Needed
Custom mouthguards are very durable, but they will need to be replaced over time. The more you use them, they can lose their shape and even their effectiveness. Your cleaning routine can also have an impact, so being diligent in it can help you get its full expected lifespan.
If you notice any cracks, tears, or a poor fit, then it might be time to get a replacement. On average, a mouthguard can last about five years. However, it can be less if you use it often, so getting a new one every year might be beneficial for you.
4.) Avoid Bad Habits
Lastly, it’s important that you don’t leave this oral appliance in places that get too hot. Keep it out of direct sunlight or forget it in your car, as it can lose its shape. Additionally, try not to chew on them as it can cause wear much faster than expected.
Follow these simple tips, and you can keep your mouthguard in the best condition it can for years to come. That way, your smile stays safe while you go out there and win all your games!
About the Author
Dr. Asra Javeed earned her dental degree from the Boston University School of Dental Medicine. She is dedicated to helping the community protect their smiles through preventive care and custom mouthguards. Whether you need this oral appliance for your sports, TMJ disorder, or teeth clenching, you can trust it’s comfortable and effective. If you want to learn how you can better care for this handy device, schedule an appointment or call her office at (757) 498-6420.