How to Clean a Mouth Guard Safely and Thoroughly

Regular cleaning removes saliva and surface debris and helps keep a mouth guard fresh between uses. Before you start, identify whether it is a sports guard, a night guard, or another type, and check the manufacturer’s care instructions or advice from the dental professional who supplied it. Different materials may have different requirements.

What You’ll Need

Cool or lukewarm running water
A soft-bristled toothbrush reserved for the guard
A small amount of mild, non-abrasive liquid soap or the cleaner recommended for the guard
A clean towel or drying area and a ventilated storage case

Step-by-Step

Check the care instructions. Look for the product label or instructions that came with the guard. If a dentist or other dental professional provided it, follow their directions. Confirm which cleaners are suitable before using a tablet, mouthwash, or household disinfectant.
Rinse it promptly. Hold the guard under cool or lukewarm running water to wash away saliva and loose debris. Avoid hot or boiling water: heat can distort some guards, affecting how they fit. Do not leave it soaking in water unless its instructions say that is appropriate.
Brush gently. Put a small drop of mild, non-abrasive soap on a soft toothbrush. Brush every surface, including grooves, edges, and the inside that contacts your teeth. Use light pressure; a rough brush or aggressive scrubbing can scratch or wear the material. Do not use toothpaste unless the manufacturer specifically recommends it, since some formulas are abrasive.
Rinse off all soap. Rinse the guard thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water, turning it so water reaches all surfaces. Check that no suds or slippery residue remain. Soap left behind can give the guard an unpleasant taste.
Inspect and dry it. Check for visible residue, cracks, rough areas, or changes in shape. Shake off excess water and let the guard air-dry completely on a clean surface. Do not seal a damp guard in its case; trapped moisture can lead to stale odors and buildup.
Store it in a clean case. Once dry, place the guard in its ventilated case, away from direct sunlight, hot surfaces, and pets. Clean the case regularly too: wash it with mild soap and water, rinse it, and let it dry before storing the guard.

Common Mistakes

Using hot water: High heat can alter the shape of some guards. Stick to cool or lukewarm water unless the product instructions specify otherwise.
Scrubbing with toothpaste or a hard brush: Abrasive products and stiff bristles may scratch the surface. Scratches are difficult to clean thoroughly, so use a soft brush and mild soap.
Choosing a cleaner without checking: Bleach, alcohol, strong household cleaners, and some mouthwashes or denture-cleaning products may damage certain materials. Use only a product confirmed as suitable for your guard.
Putting it away wet: A closed case can hold moisture. Let the guard dry fully first, and keep the case clean and dry.
Sharing or carrying it loose: A mouth guard is a personal item. Keep it in its own clean case rather than a pocket, tissue, or bag where it can get dirty, crushed, or lost.

Tips

Rinse and clean the guard after each use, rather than waiting until residue or odor builds up.
Use a separate toothbrush so toothpaste residue and everyday brushing do not transfer to the guard.
If you use a soaking cleaner, follow its label and the guard’s instructions for the correct product, dilution, and soak time. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
Wash and dry the storage case regularly. A clean guard can pick up residue from a dirty case.
Keep the guard away from heaters, hot cars, dishwashers, and direct sun. Do not bend it to make it fit in a case.
Check the guard periodically for cracks, thinning, rough edges, or a change in fit. Follow the supplier’s replacement guidance; do not trim or reshape it yourself.

Troubleshooting

It still smells after cleaning

Repeat the gentle soap-and-brush cleaning, paying attention to grooves and the inside surface, then rinse and air-dry it fully. Clean the case as well. If the odor persists, check whether the manufacturer permits a specific soaking cleaner. Do not try to mask the smell with perfume or unapproved disinfectant.

There is a film or visible buildup

Brush gently again with mild soap and a soft brush. Do not scrape the guard with a knife, pin, or other hard object, which can damage it. If buildup remains, ask the supplier or dental professional which cleaner is compatible with that material.

The guard feels warped, cracked, or uncomfortable

Stop using it if it no longer fits as it did, has a sharp or damaged edge, or appears cracked or distorted. Do not heat it, bend it back, or cut it to adjust the fit. Contact the supplier or dental professional for guidance on whether it can be checked or needs replacing.

You used the wrong cleaner or hot water

Rinse the guard thoroughly with cool water and inspect it. If its shape, texture, or fit has changed, do not try to repair it at home. Check the product instructions and contact the supplier for advice before using it again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean a mouth guard?

Rinse and clean it after each use, then let it dry before storing. Follow any different schedule or method provided with the specific guard.

Can I clean a mouth guard with toothpaste?

It is usually better to use mild soap and a soft toothbrush. Toothpaste can be abrasive and may scratch some materials, so use it only if the guard’s instructions say it is suitable.

Can I soak my mouth guard in mouthwash?

Only if the manufacturer or dental professional confirms that the particular mouthwash is safe for that guard. Ingredients in some mouthwashes may affect certain materials.

Can I use denture-cleaning tablets?

Do not assume they are suitable. Check the guard’s instructions or ask its supplier first, and follow the cleaner’s label if use is approved.

Can a mouth guard go in the dishwasher?

No, unless its instructions explicitly say otherwise. Dishwasher heat and cleaning products can damage or distort many guards.

When should I replace a mouth guard?

There is no single schedule for every type. Follow the manufacturer’s or dental professional’s guidance, and seek advice if it is cracked, worn, distorted, or no longer fits properly.

Sources: American Dental Association. Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.