A custom mouthguard is an investment in your oral health and safety. A well-made mouthguard can provide years of reliable use with the proper care. Unfortunately, even the best mouthguard can break down quickly if neglected. When you follow consistent care habits and storage practices, you can extend the lifespan of your custom mouthguard and keep it clean, comfortable, and effective.
Caring for Your Sports Mouthguard
Dr. Jomana Shayota has multiple tips to follow after you get your sports mouthguard in Franklin, MI. You want your adult mouthguard or your child’s mouthguard to last. Feel free to ask Dr. Shayota if you have questions.
Keep It Clean After Every Use
One of the most important steps in maintaining your mouthguard is cleaning it after every use. When saliva, bacteria, and debris accumulate on the surface, they can degrade the material and create an unpleasant odor. After you remove your mouthguard, rinse it with cool or lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water because heat can warp the custom fit.
Once rinsed, gently brush your mouthguard with a soft toothbrush and a small amount of mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. This helps remove bacteria and buildup without scratching or damaging the surface. Some users like to soak their mouthguard in a specialized cleaning solution once or twice a week for a deeper clean. If you choose to do this, make sure the cleaner is safe for dental appliances. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or alcohol, which can deteriorate the material over time.
Store It Properly
How and where you store your mouthguard plays a major role in how long it lasts. Always place it in a sturdy and ventilated case when not in use. A case with small air holes helps prevent bacterial growth by allowing moisture to escape. Keeping your mouthguard dry is key. Moist environments are ideal breeding grounds for bacteria and mold.
Avoid leaving your mouthguard in direct sunlight or in hot environments like a car or gym bag. Extreme temperatures can cause the material to warp to change its fit and effectiveness. If your mouthguard becomes misshapen, it may no longer provide the right level of protection. It could even become uncomfortable to wear.
Check for Signs of Wear
Even with the best care, your mouthguard will naturally wear down over time. Regularly inspect it for cracks, tears, or rough edges. These imperfections can irritate your gums or cheeks and reduce the mouthguard’s ability to absorb impact. If you notice any damage or the fit feels different from how it used to, contact Dr. Shayota for an evaluation. Sometimes, a quick adjustment can restore the fit, but in other cases, a replacement may be necessary.
It’s also wise to bring your mouthguard to your regular dental checkups. Our dentist can examine it under proper lighting, ensure it still fits your bite correctly, and professionally clean it if needed. This extra level of care can help you catch potential issues early before they turn into bigger problems.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Your mouthguard’s cleanliness depends on the health of your mouth. You should brush and floss before you place your mouthguard back on your teeth.
Cleaning your mouthguard regularly reduces the transfer of bacteria and food particles that can cause buildup or odor. Skipping this step allows debris to get trapped between your teeth and the appliance, creating an unhygienic environment that accelerates wear and tear.
If you wear your mouthguard overnight for grinding, make sure to brush thoroughly before bed. Morning rinsing with cool water can also help remove any residue and freshen the material before storage.
Know When to Replace It
Even with excellent care, no mouthguard lasts forever. Depending on how often you use it and the intensity of that use, most custom mouthguards last between one and five years. Athletes who use their mouthguards daily or experience heavy impacts may need replacements more often.
If your mouthguard starts to feel loose, uncomfortable, or develops visible damage, it’s time for a new one. Continuing to use a worn mouthguard can compromise protection and increase your risk of injury or dental problems.
Get a Custom Mouthguard Today
At Dental House and Aesthetics, your oral health is our top priority. If you play contact sports, a custom mouthguard could help protect your bite and smile from damage. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the benefits of preventative dentistry.