best way to clean a mouthguard at home
A mouthguard sits inside your mouth for hours at a time, so it can collect saliva, bacteria, food particles, and buildup if it is not cleaned regularly. A dirty mouthguard can also develop an unpleasant smell and become harder to keep fresh.
The good news is that cleaning a mouthguard does not need to be complicated. A simple routine after each use, combined with occasional deeper cleaning, can help keep it fresh and in good condition.
Why You Should Clean Your Mouthguard
Cleaning your mouthguard is about more than keeping it looking clean.
Moisture and debris left on the appliance can create an environment where bacteria can build up. If the mouthguard is put away while it is still wet, unpleasant odors can also develop.
Regular cleaning can help:
• Remove saliva and debris
• Reduce buildup on the surface
• Control unpleasant odors
• Keep the mouthguard more comfortable to wear
• Help maintain the appliance for longer
Your mouthguard should be treated as part of your daily oral-care routine rather than something that only needs cleaning when it starts to smell.
How to Clean a Mouthguard After Each Use
The easiest way to keep a mouthguard clean is to rinse and clean it immediately after removing it.
1. Rinse It With Cool Water
Take the mouthguard out and rinse it thoroughly under cool or lukewarm running water.
This helps remove saliva and loose particles before they dry onto the surface.
Avoid very hot water. Heat can affect some mouthguard materials and may change the shape or fit of the appliance.
2. Gently Brush the Surface
Use a soft toothbrush that is kept specifically for cleaning the mouthguard.
Gently brush the inside and outside surfaces, including areas where debris can collect. You do not need to scrub aggressively.
A mild soap or cleaning product recommended for the particular appliance can be used if appropriate.
Avoid harsh household cleaners because the mouthguard is designed to be used inside your mouth.
3. Rinse It Again
After brushing, rinse the mouthguard thoroughly with clean water.
Make sure there is no soap or cleaning residue left on the appliance before you put it back in your mouth.
4. Allow It to Dry
Do not immediately place a wet mouthguard into a closed case.
Instead, allow it to air-dry completely in a clean area.
Drying is an important part of mouthguard care because storing a damp appliance in an enclosed container can encourage unpleasant smells and buildup.
5. Store It in a Clean Case
Once completely dry, place the mouthguard in a clean, ventilated storage case.
The case itself also needs regular cleaning. There is little benefit in carefully cleaning your mouthguard and then putting it into a dirty case.
How to Deep Clean a Mouthguard
Daily rinsing and gentle brushing are usually the basic routine, but a deeper clean can be useful from time to time.
The safest cleaning method depends on the type and material of your mouthguard.
You can use a mouthguard cleaning product specifically designed for dental appliances, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Some cleaning products may not be suitable for every type of mouthguard, so check the product instructions before soaking your appliance.
Do not experiment with strong chemicals or household disinfectants simply because the mouthguard has developed an odor.
What Not to Use on a Mouthguard
Some common cleaning habits can damage an appliance over time.
Avoid:
• Very hot or boiling water
• Abrasive cleaning products
• Strong household chemicals
• Rough scrubbing
• Leaving the appliance in direct sunlight for long periods
• Storing it while it is still wet
If you are unsure whether a particular cleaning product is suitable, check the instructions provided with the mouthguard or ask your dentist.
How to Clean a Mouthguard That Smells
A bad smell usually means the mouthguard needs better cleaning and drying.
Start by rinsing it thoroughly and gently brushing all surfaces. Pay particular attention to areas where saliva and debris may collect.
After cleaning, allow it to dry completely before putting it into its case.
You should also wash the storage case regularly.
If the odor continues even after proper cleaning, inspect the mouthguard for cracks, rough areas, discoloration, or other signs of wear. An old or damaged appliance may need to be replaced.
How to Clean a Mouthguard With Buildup
White or cloudy buildup can sometimes appear when an appliance is not cleaned regularly.
Do not try to scrape the buildup off with a sharp object. This can scratch or damage the surface.
Instead, use a suitable dental-appliance cleaner according to its instructions and gently clean the appliance.
If the buildup remains or you cannot tell whether it is mineral deposits, plaque, or material damage, have your dentist check it.
Should You Clean Your Mouthguard Every Day?
For a mouthguard used regularly, cleaning it after each use is a sensible habit.
A simple routine is:
Remove → rinse → gently clean → rinse → dry → store.
It only takes a few minutes but can prevent debris and odors from building up over time.
If you have not worn your mouthguard for several days or weeks, clean it before using it again.
When Should You Replace a Mouthguard?
Cleaning can extend the useful life of a mouthguard, but it cannot repair physical damage.
Consider having it checked or replaced if you notice:
• Cracks or splits
• Significant thinning
• Sharp or rough edges
• A change in its shape
• A loose or uncomfortable fit
• Persistent odor after proper cleaning
• Damage caused by chewing or grinding
A sports mouthguard should also be checked after a significant impact because damage may not always be obvious at first.
For a custom mouthguard, your dentist can determine whether it still fits correctly and whether replacement is necessary.
Tips to Keep Your Mouthguard Cleaner
A few simple habits can make mouthguard care easier.
Clean your teeth before wearing it: A cleaner mouth means less debris is transferred to the appliance.
Rinse immediately after use: Don't leave saliva and debris sitting on the mouthguard for hours.
Keep the case clean: Wash and dry the storage case regularly.
Don't share your mouthguard: It is a personal oral appliance and should not be shared with another person.
Keep it away from pets: Dogs and other pets may chew through a mouthguard if they can reach it.
Check the fit regularly: If the appliance suddenly feels different, don't ignore the change.
Mouthguard Cleaning Routine at a Glance
For everyday care, keep the process simple:
1. Remove the mouthguard after use.
2. Rinse it with cool or lukewarm water.
3. Gently brush away debris.
4. Rinse away any cleaning residue.
5. Let it dry completely.
6. Store it in a clean, ventilated case.
7. Check it regularly for damage or changes in fit.
A consistent routine is usually more useful than occasionally giving the mouthguard an aggressive deep clean.