West Olds Dental Answers: How Do I Care for My Mouth Guard?

Mouthguards are one of the best ways to protect you (or your child) from injury during sports practices or games. If you aren’t sure which mouth guard is right for you, get together with your favorite West Olds Dentist and let’s talk!

A lot of attention is often given to choosing the right mouthguard. However, there doesn’t seem to be a lot of follow up for the CARE and protection of the mouthguard when it’s not being worn. We thought we’d remedy that!

To care for your mouth guard:

• Before and after using it, give your mouthguard a good rinse with cold water or mouthwash. You may also clean it with toothpaste and a toothbrush.
• Once a week (depending on how often you wear it), clean the mouthguard thoroughly with soapy water.
• To prevent possible damage during transport or storage, place the mouth guard in a firm container. Perforate the container to allow air to circulate and discourage mold growth in-between use.
• Your mouthguard has been molded to fit YOUR mouth. High temperatures like hot water, sunlight, or even hot surfaces can distort the shape and make it uncomfortable to wear or damage it.
• Give your mouthguard a good once-over during your weekly cleaning. If you find any tears or holes in it, throw it away. If it becomes uncomfortable to wear, let us know so that we can make a replacement.
• Bring the mouth guard to each regularly scheduled visit to West Olds Dental Clinic so that we can check it out.

It’d be best to have a conversation with us regarding the impact of the sport that your child plays, protection level needed, and for how long they’d be wearing it. Feel free to give West Airdrie Dental Clinic a call at 587-855-4747 to go over that information.