A custom fitted night guard is an inexpensive and noninvasive way to treat chronic teeth grinding and jaw clenching. With the help of night guard care instructions you can have a well maintained night guard that can last up to 3 years. Proper custom night guard cleaning care and maintenance of your mouthguard is important to:
- Avoid bacterial growth and discoloration
- Prolong the lifespan of the device
- Avoid bad taste and smell
- Allow the mouthguard to perform its job: protecting your teeth and jaw
Fortunately, there are many simple techniques to keep your night guard clean.
Night Guard Care Instructions
Bacteria grow in moist environments, so keeping the mouthguard clean is absolutely imperative to avoid oral infection, illness, and other related problems.
Clean After Each Use
You should give your mouthguard a brush after each use. In the morning, use a toothbrush and toothpaste to gently brush the guard. Store the night guard in a dry, clean mouth guard case until the following evening. Wash your case out well with soap and hot water before use. Rinse it and allow it to dry before you place your night guard into it.
Avoid Harsh Cleaning Products
Harsh cleaning agents can actually damage the guard by wearing down the materials. Avoid using any cleaner that contains bleach or alcohol as these can drastically shorten the lifespan of the appliance. There are plenty of cleaning products that are gentle on the guard and safe to ingest.
Deep Clean Every 1 to 2 Weeks
For a deeper cleaning (every 1 to 2 weeks) you can clean your guard with denture cleaner, white vinegar, baking soda, and/or hydrogen peroxide. For a deeper look into mouthguard cleaning techniques, check out our article How to Clean Your Night Guard.
Checking Your Custom Night Guard
Check your night guard weekly for any damage. Night guards are made to be durable, but over time, grinding and clenching will cause wear and tear. The good news is that the night guard endures the damage, instead of your teeth.
Check Your Night Guard For Damage
If you find any damage on your night guard, it's most likely time to purchase a new one. Don't use a damaged night guard as it may cause injury to the teeth, gums, and tongue. Signs of wear on the night guard might include calcium buildup, discoloration, or holes in the night guard.
Have Your Dentist Check Your Guard For Damage
Take your custom night guard with you to your regular dental checkups so your dentist can also give it a more thorough examination and make sure that it is working well. Your dentist can also give you additional advice on caring for your night guard.
Pro Teeth Guard offers professional quality custom night guards at an affordable price. We use the same materials and process as a night guard you get from the dentist. Order online and save on your next custom night guard for bruxism.
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