How to Clean an Acrylic Mouthguard

Keep your acrlic mouthguard clean to extend its useful life and avoid infection.

Keeping your acrylic mouth guard clean fosters good oral health and hygiene. The Consumer Guide to Dentistry suggests that an over-the-counter mouth guard can last for a few months or more, while a custom-fitted version may last a year or longer. Properly cleaning of your mouth guard throughout its lifetime can prevent infection or disease -- and provide a better-tasting wearing experience.

Things You'll Need

• Mild liquid soap
• Cup
• Mouth wash
• Plastic perforated storage box

Instructions

1. Rinse your mouth guard with water after use and place it in a clean, dry case until you're ready to clean it. Remember to clean the guard as soon after use as possible.

2. Wash the mouth guard with mild soap under cool running water, then rinse thoroughly.

3. Submerge the mouth guard in a cup of mouthwash for 30-60 minutes.

4. Remove the mouth guard from the mouthwash and rinse it under cool running water.

5. Store the mouth guard in a well-ventilated plastic storage box.

Tips & Warnings

• Always brush and floss your teeth before wearing the mouth guard.

• Keep the mouth guard away from excessive heat to avoid warping the plastic and destroying the fit.

References

• Mouth Guards Cost, Care and Cleaning; Nayda Rondon; 2010

Resources

• Northborough Dental Associates: Mouthguards