Wearing a night guard is a good way to defend your teeth against grinding, clenching, or tension in your jaw during your sleep. Yet, to maintain its effectiveness and cleanliness, frequent care is required. If you use one regularly, you already know that correct maintenance allows your guard to last longer and remain free from destructive bacteria. Most users of night guards in Vancouver are unaware that not cleaning the guard every day may result in odours, stains, or even oral infections.
This guide will take you through 10 easy and efficient tips on how to keep your night guard clean, fresh, and in perfect condition.
1. Rinse Immediately After Use
The moment you take out your night guard when you wake up, wash it under warm water. This gets rid of saliva and debris before bacteria will have an opportunity to adhere. Rinsing every day is the simplest method of preventing accumulation and ensuring that your night guard for teeths feels clean every time you put it on.
Don’t use hot water, as it will distort the material and undermine the effectiveness of the guard.
2. Brush with a Toothbrush (No Toothpaste)
Gentle brushing of your night guard is fine—but don’t use toothpaste. Most toothpastes have abrasive ingredients that can scratch the surface of your guard. These scratches can trap bacteria and cause nasty odours. Instead, brush your custom night guard daily with a soft toothbrush and water.
If necessary, you can use a mild soap to clean off any residue.
3. Deep Clean Weekly
Once a week, take time to deep clean your night guard to remove any buildup. Soak it in a non-alcoholic mouthwash or a mixture of water and vinegar for about 10–15 minutes. Some people also use denture cleaning tablets to disinfect their night guards near you, which can be found at most pharmacies.
After soaking, brush gently and rinse thoroughly with cool water.
4. Let It Dry Completely
After the cleaning, let your night guard air-dry completely before storage. Crediting moisture within a case with moisture encourages bacterial reproduction and odours. Set your guard on a sanitary towel or in a well-ventilated container, allowing it to dry daily.
Good drying helps lengthen the life of your night guard for teeths and makes it usable.
5. Store It in a Ventilated Case
Keep your night guard in a clean, well-ventilated case during the day. Don’t use an airtight one, as this retains moisture and provides a perfect setting for bacteria. A breathing case lets air circulate, keeping your custom night guard dry and fresh between wearings.
Clean your case regularly, also—case bacteria are easily transferred to your guard.
6. Don’t Leave It in Hot Places
Heat may deform the shape of your night guard. Never keep it in the sun, beside a heater, or in the car. Overheating distorts the material, which impairs the fit and performance of night guards near you. Always keep it in a cool, dry place when not worn.
If your night guard changes shape, make an appointment with your dental supplier to have it adjusted or replaced.
7. Keep It Away from Pets
Pets, particularly dogs, will chew up night guards if they have the opportunity. Most night guards contain materials that have your scent on them, which tends to draw your pet’s interest. Leave your custom night guard exposed and you can bet that it might end up broken—or worse, down your pet’s throat.
Keep it in a drawer or locking cabinet so that it will be out of children’s reach.
8. Inspect for Wear and Tear
With time, your night guard will wear out. Cracks, chips, or thinned-out spots indicate that it may be time for a new one. Check it regularly and consult your provider if something doesn’t seem right. A worn-down night guard for teeths won’t provide the same level of protection and might even become irritating to wear.
Regular users need to have their guard checked at regular dental checkups.
9. Take It to Your Dental Visits
Take your night guard with you every time you go to see your dentist. They can check it for damage and professionally clean it if necessary. Most providers of night guards in Vancouver suggest taking your guard in on your hygiene visits to ensure that it still fits and offers complete protection.
It also provides you with the opportunity to inquire about long-term care and replacement.
10. Replace When Necessary
No night guard, even with the best care, will last indefinitely. Most must be replaced every 1 to 3 years depending on the material and amount of use. If your guard is becoming loose, uncomfortable, or ineffective, discuss with your dental staff getting a new custom night guard fitted.
Having a working night guard is crucial to protecting your teeth and jaw when sleeping.
Guard Your Smile with the Right Care
Taking care of your night guard does not have to be tricky. With these easy tips, you can lengthen the life of your guard, prevent harmful bacteria, and keep your guard protecting your smile for many years. Daily maintenance, correct storage, and regular dental appointments are the key.
If you want a trusted, high-quality solution, City Square Dental Center is here to assist you. Our staff provides expert fittings and guidance for long-term, effective night guards in Vancouver. If you require a new guard or a checkup, our skilled dentist in Vancouver is available to assist you every step of the way. Call us today to arrange a consultation and keep your smile safe every night.