How To Clean A Mouthguard? Guide

Cleaning your mouthguard is a daily task, not an occasional one. It keeps bacteria from building up and prevents the plastic from breaking down. The best method is simple: rinse it in cool water immediately after removing it, then brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and a mild, non-abrasive toothpaste or plain dish soap.

What Is The Best Way To Clean A Mouthguard Daily?

The daily routine takes less than two minutes. Rinse the mouthguard under cool or lukewarm water right after you take it out of your mouth. This removes saliva and loose debris before they dry onto the surface.

Then brush the guard gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use a small amount of mild dish soap or a non-abrasive toothpaste. Rinse thoroughly afterward to remove any soap or paste residue. Let the mouthguard air dry completely before storing it in a vented case.

Do not use hot water. Heat can warp the plastic and ruin the fit of the guard. If the guard no longer fits properly, it cannot protect your teeth as intended.

Why Does A Mouthguard Need Cleaning Every Day?

Your mouth contains hundreds of types of bacteria. When you wear a mouthguard, those bacteria transfer onto the plastic surface. Saliva also leaves proteins behind that bacteria feed on.

Over time, this creates a biofilm — a thin layer of microorganisms that clings to the surface. A dirty mouthguard can expose your gums and teeth to higher levels of bacteria each time you wear it. This can contribute to bad breath, gum irritation, and an increased risk of cavities.

Studies have shown that uncleaned mouthguards can harbor bacteria, fungi, and yeast. One common finding is Candida albicans, a type of fungus that naturally lives in the mouth but can overgrow on a neglected guard. Regular cleaning prevents this buildup from starting in the first place.

Can You Use Toothpaste To Clean A Mouthguard?

Most standard toothpastes are too abrasive for mouthguard plastic. They are designed to scrub enamel, which is much harder than the acrylic or silicone used in most guards. Over weeks and months, abrasive toothpaste creates microscopic scratches on the surface.

Those scratches become hiding places for bacteria. Once bacteria get into rough areas, they are harder to remove with brushing alone. The guard also becomes cloudy and less transparent over time.

If you want to use toothpaste, choose a non-abrasive or low-abrasion formula. Children’s toothpaste is often gentler. Alternatively, plain liquid dish soap works well and does not scratch. Some dental professionals recommend using a denture cleaner tablet occasionally for deeper cleaning, but this is not a substitute for daily brushing.

How Often Should You Deep Clean A Mouthguard?

A daily brush removes surface buildup, but a deeper clean once a week helps keep the guard fresh. Denture cleaning tablets are a common option. Dissolve one tablet in a glass of cool water according to the package directions, then soak the guard for the recommended time.

Vinegar is another option. Mix one part white vinegar with three parts cool water and soak the guard for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly afterward. Vinegar helps break down mineral deposits and some bacteria, though it does not kill all microorganisms.

Hydrogen peroxide diluted with water can also be used. A 3% hydrogen peroxide solution mixed with an equal amount of water makes a reasonable soaking solution for 15 to 30 minutes. Rinse very well before wearing the guard again.

Do not soak a mouthguard overnight in any cleaning solution unless the product label specifically says it is safe. Prolonged soaking can weaken the plastic material over time.

How To Clean A Mouthguard That Smells Bad

A bad smell usually means bacteria or fungi have established a biofilm that regular brushing is not removing. Start by switching to a deeper cleaning routine for a few days. Use a denture tablet soak or the vinegar solution described above.

If the odor persists after a thorough cleaning, the material itself may be degraded. Plastic and silicone are porous at a microscopic level. Once bacteria penetrate below the surface, no amount of soaking will fully remove them. At that point, the mouthguard needs to be replaced.

Check with your dentist about how often to replace your specific type of guard. Sports guards and custom-fitted guards have different lifespans. A general sign that replacement is needed is visible wear, cloudiness, or a persistent odor that cleaning does not resolve.

What Should You Never Use On A Mouthguard?

Several common cleaning mistakes damage mouthguards or make them unsafe. Avoid the following:

• Hot or boiling water — This warps the plastic and ruins the fit.
• Mouthwash containing alcohol — Alcohol can dry out and degrade certain plastics over time.
• Bleach or harsh disinfectants — These leave toxic residues and damage the material.
• Dishwasher or washing machine — Heat and agitation will distort the guard.
• Abrasive toothpastes or powdered cleaners — These scratch the surface and create bacteria traps.

If you are unsure whether a cleaning product is safe, check the label. Products designed for dentures or other medical-grade plastics are generally safer choices than household cleaners. When in doubt, stick to mild soap and water.

How To Store A Mouthguard So It Stays Clean

Storage matters as much as cleaning. A wet mouthguard sealed in an airtight container is an ideal environment for bacteria and mold growth.

Always let the guard air dry completely before putting it away. Place it on a clean towel or a drying rack in a well-ventilated area. Once dry, store it in a rigid, vented case that allows airflow.

Keep the case clean too. Wash the case regularly with soap and water, and let it dry completely. A dirty case will recontaminate a freshly cleaned mouthguard within hours.

Do not leave a mouthguard in a hot car or in direct sunlight. High temperatures can soften or warp the material. Prolonged UV exposure can also make some plastics brittle over time.

Does Cleaning Method Differ By Mouthguard Type?

The type of mouthguard you have affects how durable it is, but the basic cleaning principles stay the same. Soft, flexible guards require the most gentle handling. Hard acrylic guards, like those used for sleep bruxism, can tolerate slightly firmer brushing.

Boil-and-bite sports guards are made from thermoplastic. They are more sensitive to heat and can warp if you use warm water for rinsing. Custom-fitted guards made by a dentist are typically more durable but still require the same gentle daily care.

If you wear a mouthguard for sleep apnea or bruxism, check with your sleep specialist or dentist for specific care instructions. Some appliances have metal components or special coatings that need different handling. The manufacturer’s care instructions are the most reliable source for your specific device.