How to Clean a Night Guard Safely and Keep It Fresh

Regular cleaning removes saliva and loose debris and helps keep a night guard fresh between uses. Before you start, check its case or care instructions: materials and cleaning recommendations vary. Avoid hot water, harsh cleaners and anything abrasive, which can damage or distort some guards.

What You’ll Need

Cool or lukewarm running water
A soft-bristled toothbrush reserved for cleaning the guard
A small amount of mild, unscented liquid soap, unless the maker advises another cleaner
A clean towel or a ventilated, clean place to let the guard air-dry
A clean, ventilated storage case

Step-by-Step

Wash your hands. Use soap and water before handling the night guard. This helps keep dirt and residue off the item you put in your mouth.
Rinse it promptly. Hold the guard under cool or lukewarm running water after removing it. Rinse away saliva and visible debris before they dry. Do not use hot or boiling water; heat can change the shape of some materials.
Brush gently. Wet the soft toothbrush and apply a small drop of mild, unscented soap. Brush all surfaces lightly, including the inside, outside and edges. Use a separate brush rather than one used for your teeth, and do not scrub with force.
Rinse off all soap. Rinse the guard thoroughly under cool or lukewarm water until no suds or slippery residue remain. Check grooves and edges, where soap or debris may collect.
Let it dry fully. Shake off excess water and place the guard on a clean towel or in a clean, open area with good airflow. Keep it away from direct sunlight, radiators and other heat. Do not seal a damp guard in its case.
Store it safely. Once dry, put the guard in its clean, ventilated case. Keep the case somewhere clean and dry, away from pets, children and heat. Clean the case regularly and let it dry before putting the guard inside.

Common Mistakes

Using hot water: High heat may warp or soften a guard, so it may no longer fit properly. Stick to cool or lukewarm water.
Choosing a harsh cleaner: Bleach, alcohol, household disinfectants and strong chemical cleaners can damage some materials or leave unwanted residue. Use only a cleaner approved for your particular guard.
Scrubbing with abrasive tools: Hard-bristled brushes, scouring pads and abrasive toothpaste may scratch the surface. Scratches can make thorough cleaning harder, so use a soft brush and gentle pressure.
Putting it away wet: A closed case traps moisture. Let the guard air-dry completely, and keep the case clean and dry too.
Assuming soaking is always safe: Some guards can be soaked in a suitable product, but others should not be. Do not use denture tablets, mouthwash or a cleaning solution unless the product instructions or your dentist say it is suitable.
Ignoring a poor fit: Do not try to reshape a guard that has warped, cracked or become uncomfortable. Contact your dentist for guidance.

Tips

Rinse and clean the guard each time you remove it, rather than waiting until residue has built up.
Use a toothbrush set aside for the guard and replace it if its bristles become worn or dirty.
Keep the guard and its case away from direct sun and heat, including hot cars and warm appliances.
Follow the care instructions supplied with the guard. If they specify a particular cleaner, soaking method or drying approach, use those directions instead of a general routine.
Inspect the guard while cleaning. Look for cracks, rough or sharp edges, discoloration, a persistent odor or changes in fit, and ask your dentist what to do if you notice them.

Troubleshooting

There is still residue after brushing: Rinse again and gently brush the affected area with the soft toothbrush and a little mild soap. Do not scrape it with a sharp object or use an abrasive cleaner. If the buildup will not come off, ask your dentist whether professional cleaning or another method is appropriate for that material.

The guard smells unpleasant: Clean it and its case, rinse thoroughly, and make sure both dry fully before storage. If the odor remains, do not try stronger chemicals; check the care instructions and contact your dentist.

It looks cloudy, stained, cracked or warped: Stop using it if it is damaged, has sharp edges or no longer fits as it did. Do not bend or heat it to restore its shape. Contact your dentist to determine whether it needs attention or replacement.

You used the wrong cleaner: Rinse the guard thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water. Check the cleaner’s label and the guard’s instructions. If it is damaged, feels different or you are unsure whether it is safe to use, ask your dentist before wearing it again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I clean a night guard with toothpaste?

It is generally better to avoid toothpaste because some formulas are abrasive and may scratch the guard. Use a soft brush and mild soap unless the maker recommends another product.

Can I use mouthwash to clean my night guard?

Do not assume mouthwash is suitable. Ingredients may affect some materials, and soaking can leave residue. Use it only if the guard’s instructions or your dentist specifically approves it.

How often should I clean my night guard?

Rinse and clean it after each use, then let it dry fully before storage. Follow any different schedule or cleaning directions supplied with your particular guard.

Can I put my night guard in the dishwasher?

No, unless the manufacturer explicitly says that your specific guard is dishwasher-safe. Dishwasher heat and detergents can damage or distort many guards.

Should I soak my night guard?

Only if the care instructions allow it, and only in a cleaner approved for that guard. Follow the product’s directions, then rinse it thoroughly and air-dry it.

When should I replace a night guard?

There is no single replacement schedule for every guard. Ask your dentist if it is cracked, warped, uncomfortable, no longer fits well or remains difficult to clean.

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