Nightguards can be a worthwhile investment when it comes to protecting your teeth from the daily effects of grinding or clenching. It’s important that you properly take care of your Nightguard at home to maintain it’s durability and cleanliness.

Nightguard Home-Care Instructions

Proper use

  1. Your nightguard should be worn all night, every night. If you find it difficult to adjust to this routine, you can start by wearing it a few hours each day and gradually work up to wearing it for a full night.

  2. Rinse your nightguard with warm water before placing in your mouth. This activates the thermo-forming material to ensure a snug fit.

  3. When not in use, keep your nightguard stored in it’s case — make sure everything is dry and keep away from direct sunlight.
    *Dogs love nightguards— they make great chew toys. So always make sure you keep it somewhere your dog can’t reach it.

  4. We recommend storing your nightguard on your bedside table rather than in your bathroom. This keeps it away from bathroom humidity and steam, helping it stay cleaner and drier.

  5. Bring your nightguard to your dental appointments, especially if you’re having restorative work done (fillings, crowns, etc.). We can also professionally clean it for you while your cleaning appointment is in progress!

Daily cleaning instructions

  1. Rinse with warm water immediately after wearing. This will loosen and remove any loose debris/plaque.

  2. After rinsing, lightly brush your nightguard with your normal toothbrush. Do not use toothpaste as it’s too abrasive and can damage the material. Just warm water is sufficient, or you can also use a liquid dish detergent.

  3. Lay your nightguard on a clean surface and allow it to dry for 15-30 minutes. This prevents any rapid bacterial growth.

  4. Store your nightguard in its case (which should also be dry).

Keep your case clean!

Cleaning your night guard can become a wasted effort if you put it in a dirty case. Keep the case clean by hand washing it every few days with liquid dish detergent. After washing, allow the case to dry completely to prevent bacteria growth. Do not use a dishwasher as the high temperature will melt or warp the plastic.

Deep cleaning instructions

We recommend deep cleaning your nightguard at least once a month. When following the instructions below, be sure not to soak your nightguard in any liquid for longer than an hour to avoid damaging the material.

  1. Using a non-metallic bowl, soak the nightguard in distilled white vinegar for 30 minutes. Do not use mouthwash, denture cleaners, or hot water.

  2. After soaking, rinse the nightguard and bowl with warm water. This is also a good time to rinse and dry your nightguard case.

  3. Next, soak the nightguard in hydrogen peroxide for 30 minutes. This will bleach discolorations out and neutralize the vinegar taste.

  4. Rinse your nightguard thoroughly with warm water and place it on a clean dry washcloth (out of reach of your dog!) and allow it to completely dry before returning to it’s case.