A custom-fitted night guard is a cost-effective and non-invasive solution for treating chronic teeth grinding and jaw clenching, known as bruxism. To ensure your night guard performs optimally and lasts up to 3 years, proper cleaning and care are essential. Follow these simple steps to maintain your night guard and keep it free of bacteria, discoloration, and unpleasant odors.
With the right care, your night guard will continue to protect your teeth and jaw while extending its lifespan.
Why Night Guard Care Matters
Taking care of your night guard is crucial to:
- Prevent bacterial growth that can lead to oral infections or bad breath.
- Prolong its lifespan, ensuring that your investment lasts.
- Avoid bad taste and odors, which can result from poor hygiene.
- Maximize its effectiveness, allowing it to protect your teeth and jaw from the damaging effects of bruxism.
Fortunately, maintaining your night guard is easy with regular care and a few simple techniques.
Essential Night Guard Care Instructions
1. Clean After Every Use
Each morning after use, give your night guard a gentle brush using a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. This removes any bacteria or debris from the night. After cleaning, store the guard in a clean, dry mouth guard case until your next use. Ensure the case is also cleaned regularly—wash it with soap and hot water, and allow it to air dry completely before placing the night guard back inside.
2. Avoid Harsh Cleaning Products
Using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or alcohol-based cleaners, can damage your night guard by breaking down its materials. Stick to gentle, safe-to-ingest cleaning solutions designed for oral appliances. There are plenty of products available that keep your night guard clean without compromising its integrity.
3. Deep Clean Every 1 to 2 Weeks
For a more thorough cleaning, deep clean your night guard every 1 to 2 weeks. You can use a denture cleaner, a mix of white vinegar and water, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide. These solutions help to disinfect the guard and prevent any buildup over time.
Checking Your Custom Night Guard for Damage
Over time, your night guard will show signs of wear and tear due to regular grinding and clenching. While these devices are built to be durable, regular checks for damage are essential to ensure they remain safe and effective.
1. Look for Signs of Wear
Examine your night guard weekly. Keep an eye out for signs like:
- Calcium buildup
- Discoloration
- Cracks or holes in the guard material
If you notice any of these, it may be time to replace your night guard. Using a damaged guard can risk injury to your teeth, gums, or tongue.
2. Bring It to Your Dental Appointments
Take your night guard with you to your routine dental checkups. Your dentist can inspect it more thoroughly and ensure it is still providing the necessary protection. Your dentist can also offer additional tips for night guard maintenance and advise when it’s time for a replacement.
The Hynergy Guard Advantage: Quality You Can Trust
At Hynergy Guard, we offer professional-quality custom night guards crafted with the same high standards you would receive from a dentist, but at a fraction of the cost. Our night guards are designed to offer superior comfort, durability, and protection for individuals with bruxism.
Ready to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of bruxism? Order your custom night guard today and experience the difference of expert craftsmanship and tailored care.
By following these simple care tips, you can ensure that your custom night guard remains in top condition, allowing you to maintain your oral health and enjoy restful, worry-free nights.
