How to clean your mouthguard?

January 02, 2018

Your mouthguard spends a lot of time in your mouth so it’s pretty important that it’s as clean as possible when you put it in. Not only would it taste disgusting if it’s dirty but a buildup of bacteria and grime could make you sick and impact your playing performance. No one wants that!

Here are some tips to help you clean your mouthguard and ensure it’s free from germs:

1. Rinse it:
   At the game, just run it under clean water both before and after you play. This will ensure it’s fresh in your mouth before you play and will get rid of any saliva and acid build up after the game.
2. Wash it
   It’s vital to ensure you give the mouthguard a proper wash after each game. Ideally, you’d do this when you got home from the game (don’t leave it until you’re about to leave for training the next week!). Get a mild antiseptic and rinse it over the mouthguard. You could also use a small, clean toothbrush (buy a new one, don’t use the one you brush your own teeth with) to ensure the antiseptic reaches all the sections of the mouthguard. Ensure the mouthguard is completely rinsed in water.
3. Dry it
   Bacteria need moisture to grow so it’s vital that you thoroughly dry your mouthguard. Get a clean, dry towel and ensure all the water has been removed from the mouthguard, particularly in the teeth grooves.
4. Use the case
   Don’t just throw your clean mouthguard in your sports bag! Prolon mouthguards provide a convenient plastic case so your mouthguard is protected. It’s also important to give the case a clean every so often so there isn’t any bacterial build up in there either.

Now that your mouthguard is all clean you can hit the field with confidence that not only will you avoid getting sick from bacteria, but your Prolon Mouthguards will protect your teeth from dental injury. See some more tips on how to protect your teeth from a sports injury.

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Also in Should mouthguards be compulsory when playing contact sports?