Every morning
The 2-minute daily routine
- Step 1
Rinse right away
As soon as you take your guard out, rinse it under cool or lukewarm water to wash away saliva and plaque before they dry.
- Step 2
Brush it gently
Use a soft toothbrush and mild dish soap or plain water — not toothpaste, which is abrasive and clouds the material.
- Step 3
Rinse and dry
Rinse thoroughly, then let the guard air-dry completely on a clean surface before closing it in its case. Trapped moisture breeds bacteria.
- Step 4
Store it in its case
Keep the case somewhere cool and dry — not the bathroom counter's steam zone, and always out of reach of pets (dogs love night guards).
Protect the fit
What to avoid
- Hot water — it can permanently warp the fit
- Toothpaste — abrasive; scratches and clouds the material
- Alcohol-based mouthwash soaks — dries and degrades it
- Leaving it out damp — bacteria's favorite invitation
- Wrapping it in a napkin — the most common way guards get thrown away
- Hot cars, radiators, and dishwashers
Good to know
Care questions, answered
Can I clean my night guard with toothpaste?
Skip it. Most toothpastes are mildly abrasive — fine for enamel, rough on guard material. Over time toothpaste scratches the surface, clouds it, and gives bacteria places to hide. Mild dish soap and a soft brush do the job better.
How do I deep clean my night guard?
Once a week, soak your guard for about 15 to 30 minutes in a denture/retainer cleaning solution or a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and cool water, then brush gently and rinse well. Don't soak longer than the product recommends — extended soaking can degrade the material.
Why does my night guard turn yellow or smell?
Yellowing and odor come from plaque and bacteria settling into the material — usually a sign it's being stored damp or skipping the daily rinse-and-brush. A weekly deep clean helps. If odor persists, bring it to your next visit and we'll take a look.
Can I use hot water on my night guard?
No — heat is the one thing that can ruin a guard instantly. Hot water can warp the custom fit permanently. Always use cool or lukewarm water, and never leave a guard in a hot car.
Don't have a custom guard yet? How custom night guards work →
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