WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CLEAN A MOUTHGUARD?

Quarryville Family Dentistry • July 4, 2024

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CLEAN A MOUTHGUARD?

What Is The Best Way to Clean a Mouthguard?

Dental mouthguards may be worn to prevent patients from grinding or clenching their teeth. They are also used to help with sleep apnea symptoms, and to protect teeth from injury during sports. At Quarryville Family Dentistry we work with patients who have concerns about protecting their teeth, and part of our evaluation process is to determine if patients may benefit from a mouthguard.


As with any device, it is important to understand how to keep your mouthguard clean after each use. Taking care of your mouthguard is important to ensure the guard continues to protect your teeth properly. We recommend if patients use a mouthguard to add the cleaning process to your daily oral hygiene routine at home.

How to Care For Your Mouthguard At Home Daily

  • Rinse your mouthguard immediately after each use with warm water. This helps to loosen up any bacteria or plaque that may have built up while wearing the device.
  • Gently brush your mouthguard using a toothbrush. A separate toothbrush can be used for this process if you prefer to not use the brush used for your teeth.
  • Do not use toothpaste to brush your mouthguard as this can be too abrasive, and could damage the mouthguard.
  • Set the clean mouthguard on a clean surface and allow it to dry completely. If you do not let your mouthguard dry completely bacteria growth may occur. Typically the drying process takes between 15-30 minutes.
  • Once the mouthguard is dry store the guard in a case to protect it from any damage. It may be best to store the mouthguard outside of the bathroom to ensure the humidity or steam does not cause the mouthguard to warp over time.

When Should I Deep Clean My Mouthguard?

We recommend patients should deep clean their mouthguard at least once a week. Patients can use a denture cleaner from your local pharmacy, mouthwash mixed with water, or mix vinegar and hydrogen peroxide together. Place the mouthguard in a bowl, and let it soak in the mixture of your choice for at least 30 minutes.



Once the mouthguard has soaked you can remove it, and allow it to dry completely before placing it back in the case. Cleaning the mouthguard case is also important. Cases can be hand washed every couple days to remove any bacteria that has collected over time. We recommend mouthguard cases be replaced every 6-12 months.

When you visit our office always bring your mouthguard and case. This gives our doctor the ability to inspect your mouthguard, and ensure the guard still fits properly. Our team can also help you clean the guard if necessary during your appointment. Taking care of your mouthguard is easy if you incorporate the cleaning process into your oral hygiene routine at home.

Looking to Find a Dentist in Quarryville Family Dentistry to See if You Can Benefit From a Mouthguard?

If you are looking for dental restoration options in Quarryville Family Dentistry, and are interested in finding out if you can benefit from a mouthguard, call our office to schedule a consultation. Our evaluation process can help answer any questions you may have, and we can listen to your concerns to determine if a mouthguard is right for you.


At Quarryville Family Dentistry we welcome all new patients, and provide a comfortable and relaxing experience when you visit our office. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

< Older Post Newer Post >
What Should I Know About Teeth Whitening?

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT TEETH WHITENING?

By Quarryville Family Dentistry • April 3, 2025
Professional whitening is effective at removing years of stains and discoloration from the teeth. Whether you're looking to boost your confidence or are going to be attending a wedding, reunion or another big event, a bright and white smile is sure to improve your appearance. Expert whitening is performed in our office or provided to you using a professional-grade take-home kit. Whitening results can last for months to one or more years, and maintaining your results is key to ensuring that you'll always have a gorgeous smile.
Quick Solutions for Toothaches and Dental Emergencies

QUICK SOLUTIONS FOR TOOTHACHES & DENTAL EMERGENCIES

By Quarryville Family Dentistry • April 3, 2025
In a world where health is paramount, it's crucial to be well-prepared for unexpected dental emergencies. Welcome to Quarryville Family Dentistry, your trusted dental care partner in Quarryville, PA. Dr. Rick Leibold and our dedicated team are here to educate you on dental emergencies, ensuring you're equipped with the knowledge to handle any dental crisis that may arise.
How Do I Know If I Have a Cavity?

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A CAVITY?

By Quarryville Family Dentistry • March 6, 2025
Taking care of your oral and overall health must be a priority. Knowing when you need to call your dentist is important. Practicing good oral hygiene habits help to prevent tooth decay, cavities, and many other issues. Cavities are one of the most common issues patients face, and about 30 percent of Americans have untreated dental cavities. Leaving a cavity untreated can destroy your teeth leading to tooth loss, infection, and other more serious conditions.