If your child wears a mouthguard for sports or nighttime teeth grinding, it is essential to maintain it clean. A dirty mouth protector collects germs, causes bad breath, and even leads to mouth infections. Moreover, it won’t last long without proper care. As parents, it is easy to overlook this small item, but poor maintenance of these oral appliances can impact your child’s overall oral health.
However, it only takes a few simple steps to keep your child’s bite splints fresh and long-lasting. Want to know how to keep it clean and in good shape? Continue reading to find out all the information you require.
How to Keep Your Mouth Guard Clean and Long-Lasting?
Taking care of a child’s occlusion guards does not have to be hard. With a bit of daily attention and weekly cleaning, you ensure it stays safe and comfortable for your child to wear. Thus, here is what you need to do:
Daily Cleaning Routine
- Rinse after every use: As soon as your child takes out their dental guard, rinse it with cool water. This washes away saliva, food particles, and germs right away.
- Brush with Soap and Water: Use a soft toothbrush with a little bit of mild soap or non-whitening toothpaste. Gently brush all sides of the oral appliance to remove any debris and keep it smelling fresh. It is essential to be gentle so the material does not wear down.
- Avoid Hot Water: Never clean the mouthguard with hot water. It melts or changes its shape, making it uncomfortable or unsafe to use.
- Store it Safely: After cleaning, make sure to store the bite guard in a clean, ventilated case to keep it safe from dust and germs. Never toss it in a backpack or leave it on the bathroom sink. Store and transport the mouthguard in a sturdy container with vents to allow it to dry and prevent bacteria from growing.
Weekly Deep Cleaning
- Soak it once a week: You should soak your child’s oral appliance at least once a week in a special cleaner, such as a mixture of water and mouthwash. Let it soak for about 30 minutes. This removes the bacteria that daily brushing may miss.
- Let it air dry: Once soaking is done, rinse the mouth guard again with cool water and place it on a clean towel to dry. Let it air dry thoroughly before storing to prevent mold and bad smells.
Enhance its Durability
- Consult a Professional: If you are unsure about how to clean the bite splints or think they might not fit right anymore, ask your child’s pediatric dentist New York, ny. They advise and verify that everything is still functioning as it should.
- Teach Your Child Not to Chew It: Many kids chew on their mouthguards without thinking. This causes cracks and accelerates wear and tear. Remind them to keep it in their mouth without biting down on it.
- Check for Damage: Check their occlusion guard every week. If you notice any cracks, changes in shape, or signs that it is wearing down, it is time to get a new one.
- Optional disinfecting: Occasionally, you should disinfect the bite plates with a mild solution, such as diluted hydrogen peroxide. Be sure to rinse it very well afterward. Moreover, always check with your dental professional first before trying this step.
A clean oral appliance means a healthy mouth for your child. With just a few easy habits, you can keep your child’s bite guards lasting longer and safe to use. However, if you need mouthguards with the ADA Seal of Acceptance or personalized care for a child’s oral health in the Empire City, schedule a consultation with our reputed pediatric dentist at Central Park West Pediatric Dentistry. Book an appointment to ensure your child’s smile is strong and protected.
