Can a dirty mouth guard make you sick?

Yes. Bacteria, yeast, and mold can grow on unwashed mouth guards, leading to infections, sore throats, and bad breath.

Can you use mouthwash to clean a mouth guard?

Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash, which dries and cracks the material. Alcohol-free mouthwash for a quick rinse is fine.

Soak in hydrogen peroxide and water for 30 minutes. If the smell persists after cleaning, the guard needs replacing.

Not for extended periods. Let it air dry, then store in a ventilated case. Constant water exposure can weaken the material.

Personal Care

Clean mouth guard aren't just about hygiene -- they perform better too. Here's the quick and proper way to clean yours.

1
Rinse after every use
Rinse the mouth guard under lukewarm water immediately after removing it. Don't let saliva dry on it.
2
Brush with soap
Use a soft toothbrush with a drop of dish soap to gently scrub all surfaces. Rinse thoroughly.
3
Deep clean weekly
Soak in a solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water for 30 minutes. Or use white vinegar and water.
4
Dry and store properly
Air dry completely before storing in a ventilated case. Never store wet in a sealed container.

TIPLet the mouth guard air dry completely before closing the case. Moisture in a closed case breeds bacteria rapidly.
TIPReplace your mouth guard every 6-12 months, or when you notice thinning, cracks, or an off odor that doesn't go away with cleaning.
TIPNever leave a mouth guard in a hot car. Heat warps the custom fit.

XUsing hot water, which warps the thermoplastic material and changes the custom fit.
XUsing toothpaste, which scratches the surface and harbors bacteria in the micro-grooves.
XStoring in a sealed, unventilated container while damp, which breeds bacteria and mold.

Rinse after every use. Brush with soap daily. Deep clean weekly. Replace every 6-12 months.