Care Instructions

COMPLETE INSTRUCTIONS FOR CLEANING YOUR NIGHT GUARD

Once you get a night guard, it’s important that it’s cared for properly so that it can continue protecting your teeth for as long as possible. Part of your daily oral health routine should include cleaning your night guard. Follow these complete instructions for cleaning your night guard, and it should stay in great shape for years to come!

RINSE IMMEDIATELY AFTER WEARING

Each time you wear your night guard, you should rinse it with warm water as soon as you remove it from your mouth. This will remove debris and loosen any plaque that is stuck to the night guard.

BRUSH THE NIGHT GUARD WITH YOUR TOOTHBRUSH

After rinsing, give your night guard a light brushing with your regular toothbrush. Some people prefer using a separate toothbrush just for their night guard, but it's okay if you want to use the toothbrush you use to brush your teeth daily.

Note: You don’t need to apply toothpaste to the brush. Since toothpaste can be abrasive, it may scratch your night guard and cause it to wear out more quickly.

LAY YOUR NIGHT GUARD ON A CLEAN SURFACE AND ALLOW IT TO DRY COMPLETELY

It’s important to allow your night guard to dry completely before storing it as to prevent rapid bacterial growth. Choose a clean, flat surface to allow your night guard to dry. Typically it should dry within 15-30 minutes.

ALWAYS STORE YOUR NIGHT GUARD IN A CASE

When you are not wearing your night guard, it is important that you keep it stored in a case. Many people store their night guard in their bathroom, but over time the steam and humidity in the bathroom can cause the night guard to warp. We recommend that you keep the night guard stored in your bedroom or on your nightstand instead.

DEEP CLEAN YOUR NIGHT GUARD WEEKLY

Make a habit of deep cleaning your night guard at least once a week. This can be done by using vinegar and hydrogen peroxide.

To deep clean your night guard use a mixture of vinegar and hydrogen peroxide. Soak the night guard in distilled white vinegar for at least 30 minutes. After soaking, rinse the night guard and the bowl with water. Then soak the night guard in hydrogen peroxide for at least 30 more minutes. Once finished, rinse with water and allow the night guard to dry completely.

Pro Tip: Don’t ever leave your night guard soaking in anything for longer than one hour. Extended time in liquid can damage the material your night guard is made out of.

KEEP YOUR CASE CLEAN

Cleaning your night guard can become a wasted effort if you put a clean night guard into a dirty case. Keep the case clean by hand washing it every few days with regular dishwashing detergent. Avoid placing the case in the dishwasher as the high temperature may melt or warp the plastic. After washing, allow the case to dry as to prevent bacteria growth. Plastic night guard cases do wear out over time, so we recommend replacing your case every 6-12 months or as needed.

BRING YOUR NIGHT GUARD TO YOUR DENTAL APPOINTMENTS

It’s always a good idea to bring your night guard with you to your regular dental hygiene appointment for the dental team to inspect your night guard for signs of wear and to help ensure that it is continuing to fit properly.  In some cases, they may be able to professionally clean the night guard for you as well!