There are many ways to clean a mouth guard, but the most common ones are using gentle soap, bleach, denture cleaner, or toothpaste. Here are some steps for each method:
- Using gentle soap: Get a toothbrush specifically for cleaning the mouth guard and put a small amount of soap on it. Use lukewarm water to create suds and gently brush the mouth guard. Rinse well under warm water and store in a case.
- Using bleach: Make a bleach solution with one part bleach and 10 parts water. Soak your mouth guard for 5 to 10 minutes and then rinse well. Do not use bleach if you are allergic to it or if your mouth guard is made of soft material.
- Using denture cleaner: Purchase denture or retainer cleaning tablets and dissolve one in cold water. Place your mouth guard in the solution for 5 to 10 minutes and then rinse well. Do not leave your mouth guard in the solution for too long, as it may damage it.
- Using toothpaste: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently clean your mouth guard. Rinse well with cool water and store in a case. Do not use whitening toothpaste or a toothbrush that you use for your teeth.
- You should clean your mouth guard at least once a day to prevent bacteria and plaque buildup. You can also use an ultrasonic cleaner that uses UV-C light to sanitize your mouth guard in 5 minutes.
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How Often Should I Replace My Mouth Guard?
You should replace your mouth guard every six months or at the end of a sports season, whichever comes first. This is because mouth guards can wear out, crack, or tear over time, making them less effective at protecting your teeth from grinding or injury. You should also replace your mouth guard if it does not fit well, changes color, or causes discomfort. To extend the life of your mouth guard, you should clean it regularly and store it in a dry case.
How do I Choose the Right Mouth Guard for Me?
Choosing the right mouth guard for you depends on several factors, such as the purpose, fit, comfort, and durability of the mouth guard. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:
- The purpose: You should consider why you need a mouth guard and what kind of protection you want. For example, if you play contact sports, you may need a mouth guard that can absorb high-impact blows and prevent injuries to your teeth, gums, tongue, and jaw. If you grind your teeth at night, you may need a mouth guard that can reduce the pressure and friction on your teeth and prevent damage to your enamel.
- The fit: You should choose a mouth guard that fits your mouth well and does not interfere with your breathing or speech. A custom-fitted mouth guard made by a dentist or a professional laboratory is the most accurate and comfortable option, but it is also the most expensive. A boil and bite mouth guard that you can mold yourself by heating and biting is a cheaper alternative, but it may not fit as well as a custom-made one. A stock mouth guard that comes preformed and ready to wear is the cheapest option, but it is also the least effective and comfortable.
- The comfort: You should choose a mouth guard that feels comfortable in your mouth and does not cause any irritation or discomfort. A mouth guard that is too big or too small can cause gagging, drooling, or difficulty breathing. A mouth guard that is too hard or too soft can cause pain or soreness in your teeth or gums. A mouth guard that has sharp edges or rough surfaces can scratch or cut your mouth. You should look for a mouth guard that has a smooth surface, a soft-gel interior, and air holes for breathability.
- The durability: You should choose a mouth guard that is durable and easy to clean. A mouth guard that is made of high-quality material can last longer and resist tears, cracks, or stains. A mouth guard that is easy to clean can prevent bacteria and plaque buildup and keep your mouth healthy. You should clean your mouth guard after each use with gentle soap and water or denture cleaner and store it in a dry case. You should also replace your mouth guard every six months or when it shows signs of wear and tear.
What are the Different Types of Mouth Guards?
There are different types of mouth guards that are used to protect your teeth from injury, grinding, or snoring. According to the web search results, the main types of mouth guards are:
- Stock mouth guards: These are preformed and ready to wear. They are inexpensive and can be bought at most sporting goods stores and department stores. However, they have many disadvantages, such as poor fit, bulkiness, difficulty in breathing and talking, and low protection. Dentists do not recommend their use.
- Boil and bite mouth guards: These are made from thermoplastic material that can be molded to your teeth by heating and biting. They are also available at many sporting goods stores and offer a better fit than stock mouth guards. However, they may still be uncomfortable, loose, or uneven, and may not last long.
- Custom-fitted mouth guards: These are individually designed and made by a dentist or a professional laboratory based on your dentist’s instructions. They are the most comfortable, effective, and durable type of mouth guard. They provide the best protection against teeth grinding, sports-related injuries, and sleep apnea. Furthermore, they are also the most expensive type of mouth guard.
You should choose the type of mouth guard that suits your needs, budget, and preferences. You should also consult your dentist for advice on the best mouth guard for you. To care for your mouth guard, you should clean it regularly with gentle soap and water or denture cleaner and store it in a dry case. You should also replace your mouth guard every six months or when it shows signs of wear and tear.
