How to Clean and Care for Your Mouthguard

The Hidden Danger in Your Gym Bag

You finish training, rinse your mouthguard under the tap for a few seconds, and toss it back into its case. Sound familiar? You're not alone — most athletes do the same.

But here's the uncomfortable truth: a dirty mouthguard is not just an odor problem. It can irritate gums, trigger mouth sores, and expose you to harmful bacteria.

In one study of 81 used athletic mouthguards, researchers cultured more than 450 bacterial and fungal isolates, including 154 gram-positive cocci and 107 moulds. That's not just gross — it's a genuine health risk.

Why Mouthguards Get So Dirty

Mouthguards have a high degree of porosity, creating an ideal habitat for microorganisms. These bacteria infiltrate the pores over time and thrive on moisture and nourishment from the athlete.

Left uncleaned, guards can:

Irritate mucosa and gums
Cause bad breath
Compromise underlying restorative work such as crowns and bridges
Increase risk of oral infections

The 5-Step Daily Cleaning Routine (2-3 Minutes)

The good news? A simple, repeatable routine keeps your mouthguard fresh, clear, and comfortable for longer.

Step 1: Rinse Immediately

As soon as you remove your mouthguard, rinse it under cool or lukewarm running water to stop saliva and debris from drying onto the surface.

⚠️ Never use hot water — heat can soften and deform mouthguard materials.

Step 2: Brush Gently

Using a soft toothbrush reserved only for your mouthguard, gently brush the entire surface with mild liquid soap (not toothpaste — it can be abrasive and scratch the material).

Brush every nook and cranny to remove bacterial plaque and food debris.

Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse thoroughly so no soap residue is left behind. Any residue can affect the taste and irritate your mouth.

Step 4: Air Dry Completely

Pat dry with a clean paper towel, then allow it to air dry completely before storing.

This is critical. Bacteria thrive in warm, dark, damp environments. If you stop the moisture cycle, you stop most odor issues before they start.

Step 5: Store Properly

Store your mouthguard in a ventilated case — not a sealed container. A vented case allows airflow and prevents moisture buildup.

If you must put it in a sealed case between sessions, leave the case cracked open when possible.

The Weekly Deep Clean

Once or twice a week, give your mouthguard a deeper clean:

Soak for 5-10 minutes in a non-abrasive, non-alcohol solution (specialized guard cleaner, mild soap solution, or denture tablet)
Rinse thoroughly with cool water afterwards
Air dry completely before returning to its case

What to Avoid

Mistake	Why It's Harmful
Hot water	Warps and deforms the material
Toothpaste	Abrasive — scratches the surface, creating more places for bacteria to hide
Harsh chemicals	Can weaken the mouthguard's structure over time
Closed, wet storage	Creates the perfect environment for bacterial growth
Scrubbing too hard	Damages the surface and reduces protection

When to Replace Your Mouthguard

Check your mouthguard regularly. Signs it's time for a replacement include:

Cracks or tears in the material
Cloudiness or discoloration that doesn't clean off
Persistent odor even after cleaning
Loose fit or visible wear

The SORT evidence rating recommends replacing a mouthguard when it becomes pointed or jagged, or when it causes oral irritation or ulceration.

Why Proper Care Matters

A well-maintained mouthguard doesn't just protect your teeth — it protects your overall health. The International Journal of Sports Dentistry confirms that proper maintenance extends the life of your appliance and reduces the risk of oral infections.

The Bottom Line

A clean mouthguard is a functional mouthguard. Daily cleaning takes just 2-3 minutes and dramatically extends the life of your guard while protecting your oral health.

Respect your gear — and it will protect you.