Wearing a night guard every night is an excellent way to help protect your teeth from grinding and clenching. However, keeping your night guard clean is just as important as wearing it.
Because a night guard stays in your mouth for several hours while you sleep, it comes into contact with saliva, bacteria, and plaque every night. Without proper cleaning, these can build up over time and may lead to unpleasant odors, stains, or make the appliance more difficult to keep clean.
The good news is that cleaning your night guard only takes a few minutes each day.
Here’s the right way to do it.
Step 1: Rinse Your Night Guard Immediately After Removing It
Each morning, remove your night guard and rinse it under cool or lukewarm water.
Rinsing it immediately helps wash away saliva and debris before they have a chance to dry on the surface.
Avoid using hot water, as excessive heat may warp certain night guard materials and affect how they fit.
Step 2: Gently Brush the Entire Surface
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently clean all surfaces of the night guard, including both the inside and outside.
There’s no need to scrub aggressively.
A gentle cleaning is usually enough to remove daily buildup.
Step 3: Choose the Right Cleaning Product
One of the most common questions people ask is:
“Can I use toothpaste?”
While toothpaste is designed for teeth, many formulas contain abrasive ingredients that may scratch certain night guard materials over time.
Instead, many dental professionals recommend using:
Mild, fragrance-free liquid soap
A cleaner specifically made for dental appliances
The cleaning products recommended by the manufacturer
Always rinse thoroughly after using any cleaning product.
Step 4: Let It Dry Completely
Before putting your night guard away, allow it to air dry completely.
Storing a wet night guard in a closed case may encourage moisture to remain inside the case, making it less pleasant to use later.
A few minutes of air drying can help keep both the appliance and the storage case cleaner.
Step 5: Store It in a Protective Case
Once dry, place your night guard in a clean, ventilated storage case.
Avoid leaving it:
Wrapped in a tissue
Loose in your pocket or bag
On a bathroom counter
Where pets can reach it
Believe it or not, dogs are known to chew on night guards because they retain your scent.
Should You Deep Clean Your Night Guard?
Daily cleaning is important, but many people also choose to deep clean their night guard periodically.
Depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, this may involve using a cleaner designed specifically for dental appliances.
Always follow the cleaning instructions provided with your night guard, as different materials may have different care recommendations.
Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
To help your night guard last longer, avoid these common mistakes:
Using boiling or very hot water
Cleaning with abrasive toothpaste
Using bleach or harsh household chemicals
Putting it in the dishwasher
Storing it while it’s still wet
Forgetting to clean it for several days
These habits may shorten the lifespan of your night guard or affect how well it fits.
When Should You Replace Your Night Guard?
Cleaning helps keep your night guard in good condition, but it cannot repair damage.
If you notice cracks, broken edges, a loose fit, or significant wear, it’s a good idea to have your night guard evaluated by your dentist.
Final Thoughts
Proper cleaning only takes a few minutes each day, but it can help keep your night guard clean, comfortable, and in good condition for as long as possible.
By following a simple daily routine and avoiding common cleaning mistakes, you can help protect both your night guard and your smile.
If you ever have questions about caring for your appliance, your dentist can recommend the best cleaning method for your specific night guard.