How do you care for a sports mouth guard?
Sports mouth guards are one of the most cost-effective ways to protect the teeth during athletic activities. Proper care helps your mouth guard last longer and prevents the buildup of bacteria, saliva, and food particles that can lead to bad breath and oral infections.
Daily Care
After each use, be sure to follow these steps:
Rinse: Gently rinse the mouth guard with cool water immediately after using it.
Clean: Use a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive soap. Avoid toothpaste, which can scratch the mouth guard.
Dry: Allow it to air dry completely before storing it.
Store it safely: Keep your mouth guard in a hard, well-ventilated case to prevent mold growth and damage.
Deep Cleaning
Deep clean your mouth guard at least once a week to keep it fresh and sanitary.
Soak: Place the mouth guard in one of the following solutions for about 15 minutes:
Denture-cleaning solution
A mixture of half water and half mouthwash
A solution of vinegar and 3% hydrogen peroxide
Rinse and dry: Thoroughly rinse off the solution and allow the mouth guard to dry completely.
Other Tips
To keep your mouth guard in the best condition possible:
Don’t chew on it. Chewing on it will warp the material.
Keep it away from heat. Avoid direct sunlight, hot cars, and sealed bags.
Inspect it often. Regularly look for cracks and wear.
Replace. When the guard no longer fits or is damaged, replace it. It is best to replace it every season.
Get a Custom Sports Mouth Guard
Protect your teeth and prevent sports-related injuries with a professionally fitted mouth guard. Schedule an appointment at Hale Family Dentistry today to get a custom mouth guard designed for comfort and protection.