Being able to maintain the cleanliness of your night guard and its odour-free nature, is it difficult for you? Night guards are important for the prevention of dental wear caused by grinding and clenching, but if they are not taken care of properly, bacterial growth and bad odours can develop. A proper cleaning method helps to keep your night guards in Winnipeg clean, efficient, and durable.
Understanding the Night Guard Fitting Process
Comfort and functionality are very dependent on the correct fitting. In the process of fitting a night guard, your dentist in Winnipeg will take dental impressions of your teeth to make it tight so it will not move while you are sleeping. A tightly fitted night guard also reduces the accumulation of plaque and facilitates hygiene.
Why Proper Night Guard Care Matters
Night guards near you physically separate your teeth from each other and protect the enamel against destruction, as well as the jaw area from pain. But they can still get dirty with bacteria, plaque, and smell if not cleaned properly. Periodical care means not only prolonging the life of the device but also maintaining the health of the mouth.
Visiting a dentist can help you understand the best care routine for your specific night guard and ensure it fits properly.
What is the Daily Cleaning Routine for Night Guards
Maintaining the cleanliness of your night guard should not be difficult. Just perform these easy steps:
- After every use, rinse well with tepid water
- Wash the night guard with a soft toothbrush (do not use toothpaste as it can harm the surface)
- A few times a week, use a gentle, non-alcoholic soap to clean it thoroughly
- Have the night guard absorb the air until it is completely dry, and then put it away
- Put it in a ventilated case so that there is no bacterial growth
What are the Deep Cleaning Techniques for Extra Freshness?
Deep cleaning irregularly is advisable for a longer freshness period:
- Soaking Solutions: Use denture or retainer cleaning tablets as per the given directions
- Vinegar Solution: Combine an equal amount of white vinegar and water, and soak for 15–30 minutes
- Baking Soda Paste: Rinse the stain with a baking soda-water paste gently
- Hydrogen Peroxide Soak: Your night guard can be disinfected with diluted hydrogen peroxide (1:1 with water)
- Do not use boiling water or harsh chemicals that can damage the material
Custom Night Guards vs. Over-the-Counter Options
Custom night guards are professionally made by a dentist near you, and they fit perfectly and are more comfortable. In order to continue to be effective and to maintain their original shape, they need special maintenance.
- Custom Night Guards: Proper fitting, durable, and more convenient to clean
- Non-custom Night Guards: Loose fit, potential for faster degradation, and maintenance is more difficult
What are the Tips to Maintain Night Guard Hygiene While Travelling
Travelling with your night guard? These tips will help you maintain its cleanliness and safety:
- Transport a small airy case
- Rinse with bottled water after using the guard if tap water is not available
- Bring along some gentle soap or cleaning tablets for a deep clean
- Do not put your night guard in a hot car or sealed areas
Protect Your Smile with Grand Smiles Kenaston!
It is not worth it for your oral health to be affected just because your night guard is dirty or uncomfortable. At Grand Smiles Kenaston, we provide you with customized recommendations, accurate fittings, and professional instructions to help you keep your night guard clean and functional. Schedule your visit now and experience a nice and healthy smile every night.
