How to Take Care of Your Mouthguard

Bruxism is a condition characterized by excessive clenching of the jaw or grinding of the teeth. People with bruxism may experience headaches, jaw or tooth pain, or dental problems like overly worn teeth. Mouthguards are a common way to help with this condition since they create a barrier between the top and bottom teeth. If your dentist has a custom mouthguard made for you to help with this oral health issue, it’s important to make sure you take good care of it and utilize it to the fullest. Read on for tips that will ensure that your dental guard remains in good condition and you get the most out of it.

Basic At-Home Care Tips for Nightguards

Fortunately, caring for your dental mouthguard doesn’t take much effort. Even so, it’s important to make sure you clean it every day to avoid bacteria accumulation. The steps to keep your dental guard in good condition include:

• Rinse it off – Use cool water to wash off your dental guard. You should also clean the storage case with regular dishwashing detergent every few days.
• Brush – Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and water to gently clean it. You can also add a capful of mouthwash to water and soak your night guard in this mixture for 30 minutes.
• Dry it out – Once you’ve finished brushing and rinsing your mouthguard, let it dry completely on a clean surface before you store it.
• Safely store it – Make sure to store your mouthguard in a hard, protective case with air circulation so that it is safe from harm.
• Avoid hot water – This should be avoided as it can melt or warp the plastic of your dental guard.

Why You Should Have Your Mouthguard Examined by Your Dentist

If you aren’t doing so already, make sure to visit your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings. Bring your mouthguard with you to these dental visits so your dentist can make sure it fits properly. If it doesn’t, they will have a new one made for you. Your dentists may also be able to have it professionally sanitized so you can leave your checkup with a fresh, bacteria-free dental guard.

It can take some time to get used to wearing and caring for your dental guard. With the above tips and by visiting your dentist every six months so they can determine if it needs to be replaced, you can protect your teeth from harm and maintain a healthy smile!

About the Author

Do you often suffer from jaw or tooth pain, headaches, or have overly worn teeth? If so, you may have bruxism. Dr. Shiloh Lindsey and her talented Fort Collins team at Aspen Dental Care can have a custom mouthguard made for you to ensure that your smile remains lovely and pain-free. Are you interested in learning more about nightguards or do you want to set up an appointment with Aspen Dental Care? If so, visit their website or call their office at (970) 482-3166 to get started.