How to Keep Your Mouth Guard Clean?: Best Practices for Hygiene

Whether you use it for sports, nighttime teeth grinding, or orthodontic protection, your mouthguard goes wherever your mouth goes. And that means germs do, too.

Cleaning it isn’t just about keeping it looking new—it’s about avoiding bacteria, bad breath, and potential infections. In this post, we’ll walk you through how to keep it clean and safe for everyday use.

Why Cleaning Your Mouthguard Matters?

A clean mouthguard supports a healthy smile. It shields your teeth from damage, but it can’t do much if it’s crawling with bacteria.

Here’s what can happen if you don’t clean it properly:

• Bacteria build up fast. That’s the same bacteria that cause plaque and gum disease.
• It starts to smell. No one wants a funky-smelling guard in their mouth.
• You could end up with a sore throat, mouth infection, or even fungal issues.

A college athlete once shared how skipping a week of cleaning led to a gum infection that benched him for a game. Not worth it.

👉 Simply put, a clean mouth guard = fewer dental problems.

Daily Cleaning Routine

Think of cleaning your mouthguard like brushing your teeth—it’s a daily must.

Here’s a no-fuss way to clean it after every use:

• • Rinse Immediately

After removing it, rinse it under cool water. It helps remove saliva, debris, and bacteria before they dry on the surface.

• • Brush Gently

Use a soft toothbrush. No need for fancy toothpaste—non-abrasive soap or even mild dish soap will do. Skip whitening or tartar control pastes. Those can scratch it.

• • Dry It Completely

Don’t shove it back in the case it gets wet. Pat it dry or air dry it on a clean surface.

Morning user? Clean it before breakfast. Nighttime grinder? Clean it before you go to bed. Make it a habit.

Deep Cleaning Methods (Weekly or Bi-Weekly)

Daily cleaning is great, but deeper cleaning keeps your mouthguard fresh longer. Think of it like giving your shoes a good polish—not every day, but regularly.

Try these methods:

• • Mouthwash Soak

Soak your mouthguard in a capful of antibacterial mouthwash mixed with water for 10 minutes.

• • DIY Solution

Mix equal parts of both vinegar and hydrogen peroxide. Soak for 30 minutes. Rinse well afterward.

• • Buy a Cleaner

There are tablets made just for this. Look for those labeled for mouthguard services or retainers. They’re easy to use—just drop one in warm water with your guard.

Avoid:

• Boiling water
• Bleach
• Alcohol-based cleaners
• Dishwasher

These damage the shape and wear down the material.

Proper Storage Techniques

Even the cleanest mouthguard can get gross if stored wrong.

Storage Do’s:

• Use a ventilated case. It keeps things dry and stops bacteria from partying.
• Let it air dry before putting it away.
• Keep the case away from heat or direct sunlight.

Don’t forget the case itself. Clean it weekly with warm, soapy water. A dirty case makes for a dirty guard.

Signs It’s Time to Substitute Your Mouth Guard

Mouthguards don’t last forever. Watch out for signs of wear:

• Cracks or tears
• Warped shape
• The persistent odor that cleaning won’t fix
• It no longer fits snugly.

Even with the best care, most mouthguards near you last 6 months to 1 year, depending on use. Athletes and teeth-grinders might go through them quicker.

If you’re unsure, ask your dentist in Springfield to check it on your next visit.

Mistakes to Avoid

Some cleaning methods are more harmful than helpful. Here are a few to steer clear of:

• Boiling it warps the shape.
• Dishwasher: Too harsh. It melts or deforms the plastic.
• Skipping cleanings – Letting it sit unwashed breeds bacteria.
• Sharing – Even with siblings. It spreads germs.
• Storing wet – Moisture breeds mold and mildew.

Avoid these, and you’ll get more wear out of your mouth guard.

Mouth Guard Hygiene for Kids

Kids lose things, forget routines, and don’t love extra steps. Still, if they wear a guard, hygiene matters just as much.

Tips for parents:

• Supervise cleaning routines until they become habits.
• Use sticker charts or timers to build consistency.
• Keep a backup guard handy for sports in case one gets lost.
• Let kids pick their case or soap scent—it gives them ownership.

You want them to be safe, not stressed. Make it part of their daily rhythm, like brushing or packing their lunch.

When to Consult a Dentist?

Sometimes, even the cleanest guard can cause issues.

See a dentist if:

• You notice irritation, sores, or red spots in your mouth.
• The guard no longer fits properly.
• You want a custom-fit upgrade for better comfort or performance.
• You need help selecting a new cleaner or brand.

They can offer highly personalized advice based on your needs—and even do a pro cleaning if needed.

Final Thoughts

Don’t overlook the small stuff. Keeping your mouthguard clean isn’t just about appearance—it’s about protecting your oral health. Follow daily and weekly routines, avoid common mistakes, and always store it right.

At Alpha Dental, we believe a clean mouth guard is a simple but powerful step toward a healthier mouth and a confident smile.