How To Clean a Mouthguard (The Right Way)

Reading time: four minutes

Mouthguards do a great job protecting your child’s teeth, but they need protection too—from bacteria and buildup. Without regular cleaning, a mouthguard can start to smell, feel uncomfortable, and even lead to gum irritation or illness.

In this blog you’ll learn how to clean your mouthguard in 4 easy steps. We explain why it’s important to clean it every time you use it and share tips on how to store it and when to replace it. 

Why Cleaning Your Mouthguard Matters

A clean mouthguard keeps your teeth and gums safe from bacteria buildup. Every time you wear a mouthguard, your saliva, food particles, and bacteria coat the surface. Without regular cleaning, this can lead to:

• Foul odor and bad taste
• Bacterial infections and gum irritation
• Discoloration and early breakdown of the mouthguard material

No matter what you use your mouthguard for, daily cleaning is essential.

Clean Your Mouthguard in 4 Easy Steps

Cleaning your child’s mouthguard properly helps prevent bacteria buildup, odor, and wear. Here is how to do it step by step.

1.Rinse After Every Use

As soon as you remove it from your mouth, rinse it under cool water. This quick step washes away loose saliva, food particles, and bacteria before they harden on the surface. Don’t use very hot water, as this can warp the plastic and encourage bacterial growth.

2.Brush It With a Soft Toothbrush

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild antibacterial soap or non-abrasive toothpaste to clean all surfaces. Gently scrub both the inside and outside, making sure the bristles reach all the way to the bottom. If you use soap, you may want to have a separate toothbrush for the mouthguard. 

3.Soak It Once a Week

Once a week, soak the mouthguard in a cup of warm water mixed with a retainer cleaner like Polydent for Retainers, Retainer Bright Cleaning Tablets or a capful of alcohol-free mouthwash. This deep cleaning step helps reduce bacterial growth and bad breath. Hydrogen peroxide is another effective alternative for disinfecting naturally. Always rinse the mouthguard thoroughly with cool water after cleaning.

4.Let It Air Dry Completely

After cleaning, pat the mouthguard dry with a towel and leave it in a well-ventilated area to air dry. Storing it while still damp increases the risk of mold and odor. Daily cleaning and proper drying are key to keeping the mouthguard clean and safe to use. 

How to Store Your Mouthguard

Proper storage extends the life of your mouthguard and keeps bacteria out.

• Use a ventilated case: Always store it in a container that allows air flow to prevent moisture buildup.
• Clean the case regularly: Wipe it down with soap and water once a week.
• Keep it away from pets: Dogs especially love to chew on mouthguards.

When to Replace a Mouthguard

Even the best-kept mouthguards don’t last forever. Here is when to get a new one:

• Visible cracks or tears
• Loss of shape or poor fit
• Persistent odor even after cleaning
• Changes in your bite or dental work

In general, replace your mouthguard every 6–12 months, or sooner for kids who are still growing.

Custom Mouthguards in Frisco at Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry

At Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry, we help children and teens protect their teeth both in and out of the dental chair. From nightguards to custom-fit sports mouthguards, we provide professional guidance for long-lasting oral health.

If your child needs a high-quality, professionally fitted mouthguard, we can help. Our custom options offer better comfort, protection, and durability than store-bought versions.

To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Frisco, call (214) 618-5200 or visit us at 6801 Warren Parkway, Ste 115, Frisco, TX.

📍Other locations

Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry in McKinney, TX

Lonestar Kid’s Dentistry in Prosper, TX

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