Because any kind of mouthguard you wear regularly during sports or related activity will naturally become quite dirty due to bacteria and other contaminants, regular disinfection, deodorization and related forms of cleaning are necessary. How can you go about maintaining a healthy, clean mouthguard without any risk of damaging it?
At Damage Control Mouthguards, we're here to offer the widest range of custom mouthguards available for any sport or activity, including football mouthguards, MMA mouthguards and numerous other options. Here are some of the reasons why a clean mouthguard is so important, plus mistakes to avoid and some safe, clean disinfection and deodorization methods to keep your mouthguard in great shape year-round.
Why Cleaning Your Mouthguard Matters
No matter which sport you play or which level you compete at, keeping your mouthguard clean is crucial for both your health and performance. Here are some of the main reasons why cleaning your mouthguard matters:
Prevents bacteria and germs: The most obvious reason to keep your mouthguard clean is to prevent the growth and spread of harmful bacteria and germs. When you wear a dirty mouthguard, you are essentially putting these microorganisms directly into your mouth, which can lead to a range of oral health issues.
Avoids bad odors and tastes: A smelly or foul-tasting mouthguard is not only unpleasant for others around you, but it can also affect your own performance. If you have ever worn a dirty mouthguard, you know the unpleasant taste that can linger in your mouth. Keeping your mouthguard clean and fresh will ensure a more enjoyable experience for both you and those around you.
Maintains proper fit and comfort: Over time, bacteria and dirt buildup can cause your mouthguard to become distorted or misshapen. This not only affects the fit of your mouthguard, but it can also make it uncomfortable to wear. By regularly cleaning your mouthguard, you can maintain its shape and ensure a comfortable fit every time.
Avoids risk of oral infections: Did you know that bacteria and germs can easily transfer from your mouthguard to your mouth, increasing the risk of oral infections? Regular cleaning helps to remove these harmful microorganisms, reducing the chance of developing conditions like gingivitis or even tooth decay.
Prolongs lifespan: Similar to any other piece of sports equipment, proper care and maintenance can extend the lifespan of your mouthguard. By regularly cleaning it, you can prevent damage or wear and tear that may lead to needing a replacement sooner than expected.
Common Mouthguard Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes we see when disinfecting or deodorizing mouthguards, plus how to avoid them:
Using boiling water: While it may seem like a good idea to use hot water to kill bacteria, boiling water can actually warp or damage the mouthguard material.
Using harsh chemicals: Bleach, alcohol, or other harsh chemicals can break down the material of your mouthguard and also leave harmful residue that you don't want to put in your mouth.
Not allowing enough drying time: After cleaning your mouthguard, make sure to let it air dry completely before storing it. If moisture is trapped in your storage case, it can lead to bacterial growth.
Abrasive scrubbing: Avoid using abrasive materials or scrubbing too hard when cleaning your mouthguard. This can damage the material and reduce its effectiveness in protecting your teeth.
Safe, Effective Disinfection Methods
Here are some methods that are proven effective for disinfecting your mouthguard:
Soaking in Non-Alcohol-Based Mouthwash or Cleaning Tablets
One of the simplest and most effective ways to disinfect your mouthguard is by soaking it in an alcohol-free mouthwash or using special cleaning tablets designed for oral appliances. Simply fill a small container with enough mouthwash or water to fully submerge the mouthguard, add a tablet if using, and let your guard soak for the recommended amount of time (usually 15-30 minutes). Make sure to rinse off your mouthguard before use.
Diluted Hydrogen Peroxide or Vinegar
Another option for cleaning your mouthguard is using diluted hydrogen peroxide or vinegar. These substances have antimicrobial properties that can effectively kill bacteria and other pathogens on your mouthguard. To use, create a mixture of equal parts water and either hydrogen peroxide or vinegar, enough to fully submerge your mouthguard. Let it soak for 15-20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Antimicrobial Sprays Designed for Sports Gear
There are also specially formulated antimicrobial sprays designed specifically for sports gear, including mouthguards. These sprays are easy to use and can quickly disinfect your mouthguard after each use. Simply spray the solution onto your mouthguard and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off.
Safe, Effective Deodorization Tips
And here are some methods you can use to safely deodorize your mouthguard without damaging it:
Baking Soda Rinse
Likely the most effective and easiest way is to use baking soda. Baking soda absorbs odors and leaves a fresh, clean scent behind. To use this method, simply mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 cup of water until it dissolves. Then, soak your mouthguard in the solution for at least 30 minutes before rinsing and drying it off.
Vinegar Solution
White vinegar also has odor-eliminating properties and can be used to safely deodorize your mouthguard. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a bowl and let your mouthguard soak in the solution for about 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off.
Full Dry Before Storage
When your mouthguard is clean and odor-free, make sure to fully dry it off before storing it. Any leftover moisture can create a breeding ground for bacteria and may cause your mouthguard to develop an unpleasant smell over time. Use a clean towel or let it air dry completely before placing it in its storage case.
Ventilated Storage
And when storing your mouthguard, make sure to keep it in a well-ventilated area. This will help prevent moisture buildup and allow your mouthguard to fully dry out between uses.
At Damage Control Mouthguards, our experts will be happy to offer further advice on disinfecting or deodorizing your mouthguard. For more on this or any of our custom mouthguard options for any sport, contact us today!
