How to Clean a Mouthguard

How to Clean a Mouthguard at Home

We don't like to think about it, but our mouth contains tons of bacteria. Most of this bacteria keeps us healthy, but if not in the right environment bacteria can some health issues. This is why we don't want bacteria on our mouthguards and it is important to clean a mouthguard after every use. Cleaning your mouthguard doesn't need to be a hassle. 

The Denta-Gard® Kid's Comfort PRO™ offers more mouthguard cleaning options due to its technologically advanced materials:

Toothpaste

Since you brush your teeth a couple of times a day, cleaning your mouthguard with a toothbrush and toothpaste will likely be an easy habit to adopt. It's a good idea to keep a separate toothbrush just for this purpose to avoid cross-contamination of bacteria.

When using a toothbrush to clean your mouthguard:

1. Rinse your mouthguard with cold water.
2. Apply some toothpaste to the toothbrush.
3. Brush all surfaces of the mouthguard ensuring you get into all the crevasses.
4. Rinse off the toothpaste.
5. Let the mouthguard dry.
6. Place it in a case to keep it clean.

Mouthwash

The antimicrobial properties of mouthwash make it ideal for cleaning your mouthguard. Some mouthguards can be damaged by the alcohol content of mouthwash. For this reason, you may want to use an alcohol-free mouthwash. You can use either for the DentaGard Kid's Comfort PRO mouthguard.

Here's our recommended process for using mouthwash to clean a mouthguard:

1. Rinse your mouthguard with cold water.
2. Add a capful of mouthwash to a clean glass.
3. Add water until your mouthguard is covered by the liquid.
4. Soak your mouthguard for 30 minutes.
5. Remove and rinse with cold water.
6. Let the mouthguard dry.
7. Place it in a case to keep it clean.

Boiling water

Boiling water is a good way to sterilize many things. However, most mouthguards lose their shape and become unusable if boiled. Placing your DentaGard Kid's Comfort PRO mouthguard in boiling water will NOT harm it or affect its use.

1. Place a pot of water on the stove.
2. Bring water to a rolling boil.
3. Drop your mouthguard into the pot of boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Turn off the stove.
5. Use a utensil to remove your mouthguard from the boiling water.
6. Let the mouthguard dry.
7. Place it in a case to keep it clean.

Soap and water

You can use soap and water to clean your mouthguard. If you choose this method, consider using a mild, alcohol-free soap as some mouthguards can be damaged by the alcohol content.   Alcohol will not damage your DentaGard Kid's Comfort PRO mouthguard however other mouthguards are susceptible to damage. Antibacterial soap or dish soap are good options for this method and you will need a toothbrush.

To clean a mouthguard with soap:

1. Rinse your mouthguard with cold water.
2. Apply a small amount of soap to your mouthguard.
3. Gently brush the mouthguard with a toothbrush until soapy.
4. Rinse with cold water until all the suds are removed.
5. Let the mouthguard dry.
6. Place it in a case to keep it clean.

Baking Soda

Baking soda reduces odors and removes debris. When using baking soda, we recommend:

1. Combine equal parts of baking soda and water in a clean bowl to create a paste.
2. Apply the paste to a toothbrush.
3. Brush all surfaces of the mouthguard ensuring you get into all the crevasses.
4. Rinse your mouthguard with cold water.
5. Let the mouthguard dry.
6. Place it in a case to keep it clean.

Browse our website to learn more about the Denta-Gard® Kid's Comfort PRO™ Mouthguard. A natural conforming mouthguard that is perfect for kids.