Caring for Your Sports Guard

A custom sports guard protects your teeth during play, but only if you keep it clean and in good condition. A guard that is tossed in a bag, never rinsed, or left to bake in a hot car will not last long and can become unpleasant to wear. Fortunately, caring for a sports guard takes only a minute and quickly becomes part of your routine. Here is how to keep yours fresh, hygienic, and game-ready.

Clean it after every use

The most important habit is to rinse and clean your guard right after each practice or game. Rinse it under cool or lukewarm water to remove saliva and debris, then gently brush it with a soft toothbrush. A little mild liquid soap or non-abrasive toothpaste works well. Rinse thoroughly so no residue is left. Cleaning it while it is fresh stops bacteria and buildup before they have a chance to set in.

Dry it before storing

Moisture encourages bacteria, so let your guard air dry before putting it away. A few minutes on a clean surface is enough. Sealing a wet guard in a closed case is a recipe for odor and grime, while a dry guard in a dry case stays much fresher between uses.

Store it in a ventilated case

Always keep your sports guard in a sturdy case with air holes when you are not wearing it. The case protects it from being crushed in your gear bag and lets it continue to dry. Just as important, keep it out of heat. A guard left in direct sun, in a hot car, or near any heat source can warp, which ruins the fit and the protection. Heat is one of the most common ways a good guard gets ruined.

Deep clean it regularly

Beyond daily rinsing, give your guard a more thorough cleaning every week or so. Soaking it briefly in water with a little mouthwash, or using a denture or retainer cleaning tablet according to the directions, helps keep it fresh and cuts down on buildup you cannot see. Always rinse it well before wearing it again.

What to avoid

A few habits will shorten the life of your guard or harm it. Keep these in mind:

• Do not use hot or boiling water, which can warp the guard.
• Do not soak it in bleach or other harsh chemicals.
• Do not use abrasive or whitening toothpaste that can scratch it.
• Do not leave it loose in a bag where it can be crushed or get dirty.
• Do not leave it in a hot car or sunny spot.
• Keep it away from pets, who love to chew them.

Inspect it and know when to replace it

Check your guard regularly for signs of wear. Replace it if you notice thin or torn spots, a loose fit, or an odor you cannot clean away. For young athletes, a guard may also need replacing as the teeth change or the child grows. A worn-out guard does not protect well, so do not stretch it past its useful life. If you are deciding between options for a replacement, our guide to custom vs boil-and-bite sports guards can help, and our overview of why athletes need custom mouthguards explains what a good guard protects.

Bring it to your visit

It is a good idea to bring your sports guard to your regular cleaning and exam so we can check it for wear and fit. At Fremont Family Smiles, Dr. Anna Yi and our team help athletes across Fremont and the wider Tri-City area keep their guards in top shape. To ask a question or get a replacement guard, contact our office or learn more about our sports guard services.