Night guards are essential for protecting your teeth from grinding and clenching, especially if you suffer from bruxism or TMJ-related discomfort. However, what many users overlook is that proper cleaning and maintenance are just as important as wearing the guard itself.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to clean a night guard properly, how often you should do it, what to avoid, and how a clean guard extends both your health and the lifespan of your product.
Whether you're using our Slim Fit Night Guard – Soft and Flexible or our Dual Laminate 2MM Hybrid Night Guard, this guide is for you.
Dual Laminate 2MM Hybrid Night Guard
This hybrid night guard is one of our top picks for both comfort and durability, perfect for bruxism and TMJ relief.
- Soft inner layer for comfort
- Hard outer shell for strong protection
- Ideal for moderate to severe grinding
Why Cleaning Your Night Guard Matters
Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments, like the one inside your mouth while you sleep. If your night guard isn’t cleaned regularly, it can become a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms. This leads to:
- Bad breath
- Staining and odor
- Mouth infections
- Reduced durability and fit
- A compromised guard over time
Keeping your guard clean isn’t optional—it’s part of your oral hygiene.
Daily Cleaning Routine (After Each Use)
Cleaning your night guard after each use doesn’t require fancy equipment or special chemicals. Just a few simple steps will help maintain its integrity:
Step 1: Rinse Immediately After Waking Up
Start your day by rinsing your guard under lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the material, especially in soft or dual-layer models like our Hybrid 2MM Guard.
Step 2: Use a Soft Toothbrush (No Toothpaste)
Gently brush the guard using a designated soft-bristle toothbrush. Do not use toothpaste—it's too abrasive and can damage the surface.
For example, our Hard and Firm Night Guard – Maximum Durability is crafted from high-quality materials like acrylic and EVA, but even these can wear down with abrasive pastes.
Step 3: Dry Thoroughly Before Storing
Use a clean towel or paper towel to pat the night guard completely. Moisture trapped inside your storage case encourages bacterial growth.
Deep Cleaning: Once or Twice a Week
Even with daily maintenance, your night guard needs a deeper clean to eliminate buildup and bacteria.
Option 1: Soak in a Denture or Retainer Cleaner
Use a non-alcohol-based denture cleaner or retainer soak. Follow the product instructions, but avoid extended soaking, which can degrade some materials.
Option 2: Use a DIY Solution
Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water and soak the guard for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and dry. You can also use hydrogen peroxide for 15–20 minutes, followed by a water rinse.
Tip: Our Multicolor Life 3MM Night Guard—available in blue, pink, and green—can safely withstand occasional vinegar or peroxide soaks without fading or losing structural integrity.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Your Night Guard
Many users unknowingly damage their guards with harsh products or poor habits. Here’s what not to do:
- Don’t use boiling or hot water (can warp your guard)
- Don’t use mouthwash containing alcohol
- Don’t scrub with abrasive toothpaste
- Don’t leave it wet in a closed container
Night guards like our Slim Fit and Dual Laminate Hybrid are designed to last—but only with proper care.
Storing Your Guard: The Right Way
Storage is a critical part of night guard care. Always use a ventilated case to prevent bacterial buildup.
When you purchase any guard from us, it comes with a free protective case designed for breathability and hygiene. For travel, keep a second case on hand and avoid leaving the guard in your car, where heat can cause warping.
How to Tell If It’s Time to Replace Your Guard
Even the best guards—like our Hard and Firm Night Guard designed for TMJ and heavy grinding—won’t last forever. Watch for:
- Cracks or thinning
- Unpleasant odors that don’t go away with cleaning
- A change in fit or discomfort during wear
On average:
- Soft guards last 6–12 months
- Hybrid or dual-layer guards last 12–18 months
- Hard acrylic guards can last up to 2–3 years with excellent care
If your guard is showing signs of wear, it's time to order a replacement to keep your teeth protected.
Why Choose DentalNightGuard?
We don’t just sell night guards—we help you protect your long-term oral health.
Each of our custom-fitted guards is:
- Made from FDA-approved, BPA-free materials
- Designed for durability, safety, and comfort
- Backed by a 30-day satisfaction guarantee
- Delivered direct to your door, lab-direct pricing, no dental visit required
- Comes with a free case and fast U.S. shipping
Whether you need a discreet daytime option like our Slim Fit Night Guard, a durable solution like the Hard and Firm Night Guard, or dual-layer protection with the Hybrid 2MM Night Guard, we’ve got you covered.
Final Thoughts: Clean Guard = Healthy Mouth
Cleaning your night guard daily is more than a good habit—it’s essential for protecting your oral health, preventing bacteria buildup, and getting the most out of your investment.
But even the cleanest night guard won’t protect your smile if it’s worn out, poorly fitted, or store-bought. At DentalNightGuard, we offer custom-fitted night guards designed for real results—whether you’re dealing with grinding, clenching, TMJ pain, or all three. Choose from our Slim Fit, Hard and Firm, Hybrid Dual-Laminate, or Multicolor 3MM guards—each crafted by dental lab technicians using premium, BPA-free materials.
Order your custom night guard today and get:
- Free U.S. shipping
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Dentist-quality protection—without the dental visit
Protect your smile the smart way. Shop now and start sleeping better tonight.