Do’s and Don’ts of Night Guard Care A night guard is more than just a dental accessory—it’s a protective shield for your teeth, gums, and jaw. Whether you grind your teeth at night (bruxism) or suffer from jaw tension, your night guard helps reduce damage and discomfort while improving sleep quality. But just like your teeth need daily care, your night guard also requires regular cleaning and maintenance. If not properly maintained, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria, lose its shape, or even cause oral health problems. To make sure your night guard lasts long and works effectively, here are the essential do’s and don’ts of night guard care ✅ DO’S OF NIGHT GUARD CARE 1. Rinse After Every Use Rinse your night guard with lukewarm water immediately after removing it in the morning. This clears away saliva, bacteria, and small debris before they harden on the surface. 2. Brush Gently Use a soft toothbrush to clean your night guard daily. Avoid toothpaste, as it contains abrasives that can scratch the material and weaken it over time. 3. Use Mild Soap or Cleaners For daily cleaning, use a gentle soap solution or non-alcoholic mouth rinse. Once a week, soak it in denture or retainer cleaner for a deep clean. 4. Store in a Ventilated Case Always place your night guard in a ventilated case with air holes. This prevents bacteria buildup and keeps it dry. A clean, dry environment extends its lifespan. 5. Bring It to Your Dental Checkups During your dental appointments, bring your night guard with you. Your dentist can check for signs of wear, cracks, or poor fit and recommend adjustments or replacements. 6. Handle with Clean Hands Always wash your hands before touching your night guard. This ensures you don’t transfer bacteria, dirt, or food particles onto it. ❌ DON’TS OF NIGHT GUARD CARE 1. Don’t Use Hot Water Exposing your night guard to boiling or hot water can warp its shape, making it uncomfortable and less effective. Stick to cool or lukewarm water. 2. Don’t Leave It Exposed Never leave your night guard lying around on the bathroom counter, sink, or bedside. Open exposure invites dust, bacteria, and accidental damage. 3. Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals Avoid cleaning your night guard with bleach, alcohol, or abrasive toothpaste. These can cause discoloration, damage, and unpleasant taste. 4. Don’t Skip Daily Cleaning Failing to clean your night guard daily can lead to plaque buildup, bad odour, and bacterial infections. A dirty guard can harm your oral health rather than protect it. 5. Don’t Ignore Discomfort If your night guard starts to feel uncomfortable, cracked, or loose, don’t continue using it. Ill-fitting guards can worsen jaw pain or damage your teeth. 6. Don’t Share Your Night Guard Your night guard is made specifically for your mouth. Sharing it can spread bacteria and may damage its custom fit. WHY NIGHT GUARD CARE MATTERS ● Improves Hygiene: A clean guard prevents bacteria buildup and bad breath. ● Saves Money: Proper care extends its lifespan, saving you from early replacements. ● Protects Oral Health: Prevents infections, enamel wear, and gum irritation. ● Comfort: A well-maintained guard feels smoother, fresher, and more comfortable to wear every night. QUICK TIPS FOR LONG-LASTING USE ● Clean your night guard daily and deep clean it weekly. ● Replace your ventilated case every 6–12 months to avoid contamination. ● Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. ● Ask your dentist about professional cleaning options if needed. Your night guard is an important investment in your oral health and overall well-being. Following these do’s and don’ts of night guard care will not only extend its life but also ensure maximum comfort and protection. Remember: a properly cared-for night guard keeps your smile healthy, your jaw relaxed, and your sleep more peaceful.