How to Clean Your Dental Mouthguard

To clean a mouthguard, rinse it in cool water right after you take it out, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap, rinse again, and let it air dry before you put it in a vented case. Once a week, give it a longer soak in a denture or retainer cleaning tablet, and never use hot water, which can warp it.

If you're one of the millions of Americans who wear a mouthguard for teeth grinding, sports, or sleep apnea, you already know how important this little device is for protecting your teeth. But here's something that might surprise you: that same mouthguard protecting your smile could be harboring bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms if you're not cleaning it properly.

Why Proper Mouthguard Care Matters

Your mouth contains over 700 different species of bacteria - and every time you wear your mouthguard, some of those microorganisms transfer to its surface. Without proper cleaning, these bacteria multiply rapidly in the warm, moist environment. According to a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health(opens in new tab), improperly cleaned mouthguards can harbor streptococci, staphylococci, and even candida yeasts.

Beyond the obvious "ick factor," a dirty mouthguard can lead to bad breath, gum irritation, and even oral infections. Plus, bacteria and mineral deposits can break down the material faster, meaning you'll need to replace your mouthguard sooner than necessary. Considering that custom mouthguards from your Acworth dentist can cost several hundred dollars, proper care just makes financial sense.

The good news? Keeping your mouthguard clean doesn't require expensive products or complicated routines. With a few simple habits, you can keep your mouthguard fresh and your mouth healthy.

Daily Cleaning Routine

Think of cleaning your mouthguard like washing your hands - it should happen automatically after each use. Here's what works best:

Right after removing your mouthguard, rinse it thoroughly with cool water. Hot water can warp the material, especially if you have a thermoplastic mouthguard. Next, use a soft-bristled toothbrush (keep a separate one just for your mouthguard) with a small amount of liquid soap to gently scrub all surfaces. Pay special attention to any grooves or indentations where bacteria love to hide.

What about toothpaste? While it might seem logical, most toothpastes contain abrasives that can create tiny scratches in your mouthguard's surface. These microscopic scratches become perfect hiding spots for bacteria. The American Dental Association(opens in new tab) recommends sticking with gentle, non-abrasive cleaners like liquid hand soap, dish soap without added moisturizers, or cleaners specifically designed for dental appliances.

After scrubbing, rinse thoroughly with cool water until all soap residue is gone. Give it a shake to remove excess water, then let it air dry completely before storing. This whole process takes less than two minutes - about the same time you spend brushing your teeth.

Deep Cleaning Methods

While daily cleaning handles surface bacteria, your mouthguard needs a deeper clean about once a week. Think of it like the difference between daily tidying and weekend deep cleaning your house.

One effective method is soaking your mouthguard in a denture cleaning solution. These tablets are designed to kill bacteria and remove stubborn deposits without damaging dental materials. Simply drop a tablet in a glass of warm (not hot) water, add your mouthguard, and let it soak for 15-30 minutes. Another option is creating a solution with equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide, which naturally kills bacteria and helps remove stains.

For those who prefer natural cleaning methods, a mixture of baking soda and water works well. Create a paste consistency and use your designated toothbrush to scrub the mouthguard thoroughly. Baking soda's mild abrasive properties help remove buildup without scratching the surface.

Some people swear by mouthwash soaks, but be careful here. Alcohol-based mouthwashes can dry out and damage certain mouthguard materials over time. If you choose this method, use an alcohol-free version and limit soaking to 5-10 minutes.

Common Cleaning Mistakes

Even with the best intentions, it's easy to damage your mouthguard through improper cleaning. One of the biggest mistakes? Using hot water. Whether you're rinsing, soaking, or cleaning, hot water can cause your mouthguard to lose its shape, making it uncomfortable or even ineffective.

Another common error is using bleach or other harsh chemicals. While bleach certainly kills germs, it can also break down the mouthguard material and leave behind residues that irritate your mouth. Similarly, putting your mouthguard in the dishwasher might seem convenient, but the high heat and harsh detergents will likely ruin it.

Watch out for these warning signs that your cleaning routine needs adjustment: persistent bad odor even after cleaning, visible buildup or discoloration that won't come off, or changes in how the mouthguard fits. If you notice any of these issues, it might be time to reassess your cleaning methods or consider replacing your mouthguard.

Dr. Alan Parnes often reminds patients, "Your mouthguard is an investment in your oral health. Taking a few extra minutes to clean it properly can save you from bigger problems down the road."

From Dr. Parnes's chair: what we see when patients bring their guards in

At Alan N. Parnes DDS, we make custom sports mouthguards for athletes of all ages and custom night guards for patients who grind or clench at night. We also ask patients to bring their guards to checkups, which the ADA recommends, so we can look at them and give them a cleaning. 

A few patterns show up again and again.

- Warped sports guards. Most come back from a hot car or a gym bag left in the sun, not from wear. A guard that no longer snaps into place is not protecting the teeth.

- Cloudy or yellow night guards. This is usually mineral buildup from saliva. A weekly soak and gentle brushing keep it under control.

- Cracked or chewed edges. On a night guard, heavy wear in one spot can tell us where you grind hardest. That is useful information, and it also means the guard may be close to replacement.

- Guards that fit poorly after dental work. A new crown or filling can change the fit. If your guard feels different after treatment, bring it in.

A guard only works if it fits and is clean enough that you want to wear it.

Storage and Maintenance Tips

Georgia summers are hard on mouthguards. A car parked at a Cobb County ballfield or at Lake Acworth on a July afternoon can get hot enough to soften the plastic, and the ADA warns never to leave a mouthguard in the sun or in hot water. Keep the case in your bag or cooler instead of on the dashboard. If your child's guard comes home bent out of shape, Alan N. Parnes DDS can check the fit and make a new custom sports guard in the team's colors.

Where and how you store your mouthguard between uses is just as important as how you clean it. After your mouthguard is completely dry, store it in a ventilated case. Those holes in your mouthguard case aren't just for decoration - they allow air circulation, preventing moisture buildup that encourages bacterial growth.

Keep your storage case clean too. Wash it with soap and water at least once a week, and replace it every few months or if you notice any cracks or damage. Store your mouthguard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The bathroom medicine cabinet might seem convenient, but the humidity from showers can create a breeding ground for bacteria.

When traveling, resist the temptation to wrap your mouthguard in a napkin or toss it loose in your gym bag. Always use your ventilated case, and pack a small bottle of liquid soap for cleaning on the go. If you're flying, keep your mouthguard with you rather than in checked luggage where temperature extremes in the cargo hold could damage it.

According to the Academy of General Dentistry(opens in new tab), most mouthguards should be replaced every season for athletes, or every 6-12 months for night guard users, or sooner if you notice signs of wear like holes, tears, or loss of thickness. If your mouthguard no longer fits snugly or feels uncomfortable, schedule a visit with Alan N. Parnes DDS to check if your teeth have shifted and to get fitted for a replacement.

Special Considerations

Not all mouthguards are created equal, and different types may need slightly different care. Over-the-counter boil-and-bite mouthguards tend to be less durable than custom-fitted ones from your dentist, so they require gentler handling. Sports mouthguards that see heavy use during contact sports may need more frequent deep cleaning than night guards worn for teeth grinding.

If you wear a mouthguard for sleep apnea that's connected to other devices, follow the manufacturer's specific cleaning instructions for all components. These complex devices often have parts that shouldn't be submerged in water or exposed to certain cleaning agents.

For children's mouthguards, supervision is key. Kids might forget to clean their mouthguards or use improper techniques. Make it part of their bedtime or after-practice routine, and check periodically to make sure they're doing it correctly. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry(opens in new tab) notes that children's mouths change rapidly as they grow, so their mouthguards typically need more frequent replacement than adults'.

Your mouthguard works hard to protect your teeth and jaw. By spending just a few minutes on proper cleaning and storage, you're not only protecting your investment but also safeguarding your oral health. If you have questions about mouthguard care or need a replacement, the team at Alan N. Parnes DDS is always here to help make sure your smile stays healthy and protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use toothpaste to clean my mouthguard?

The ADA says you can brush a mouthguard with a toothbrush and toothpaste or clean it in cool, soapy water. Some toothpastes are gritty and can leave fine scratches on clear night guards, where buildup collects. A soft brush with mild, unscented soap is a safe everyday choice. Ask your dentist what works best for your guard's material.

Should I clean a night guard differently than a sports mouthguard?

The basic steps are the same: rinse, brush gently, rinse, and air dry. Night guards sit in your mouth for hours while saliva flow drops during sleep, so they tend to collect more mineral buildup and need a weekly soak. Sports guards often get tossed in gym bags, so a vented case and keeping them out of heat matter most.

Why does my night guard smell bad even after I clean it?

A lasting odor usually means bacteria or buildup are stuck in scratches or grooves, or the case itself is dirty. Soak the guard in a denture or retainer cleaning tablet, brush it gently, and wash the case with soap and water. If the smell does not go away, the guard may be worn out. Bring it to your next dental visit.

How do I know when to replace my mouthguard?

The ADA says to replace a mouthguard right away if it shows wear, is damaged, or fits poorly. Watch for holes, thin spots, cracks, or a loose fit. Children and teens often need new guards more often because their teeth and jaws are still changing. New crowns or fillings can also change how a custom guard fits.

Is a custom mouthguard easier to keep clean than a boil-and-bite guard?

A custom guard from your dentist is made from a model of your teeth, so it fits closely and usually has smoother surfaces. Store-bought boil-and-bite guards can be bulkier, with more folds where buildup collects. Both need the same daily rinse, brush, and air dry routine. The bigger advantage of a custom guard is fit and comfort, which makes people more likely to wear it.