A night guard, typically a clear acrylic or plastic device worn over the teeth, does not inherently cause tooth decay. The materials used in a custom-fitted night guard are inert and do not damage the enamel. However, wearing the appliance creates a localized environment that can significantly increase the risk of decay if proper hygiene protocols are not followed. This risk depends entirely on the user’s habits and care of both the teeth and the guard.
How Night Guards Change the Oral Environment
A night guard fundamentally alters the mouth’s natural defenses against decay while it is being worn. The primary issue is the appliance’s effect on saliva, which is the body’s natural defense mechanism against acid and bacteria. Saliva contains minerals that help remineralize tooth enamel, and its flow washes away food debris and neutralizes acids.
The night guard acts as a physical barrier, significantly reducing the cleansing flow of saliva over the surfaces it covers. This creates a static, low-flow environment, particularly on the chewing surfaces underneath the appliance. If teeth are not clean before insertion, the guard traps existing plaque and acid directly against the enamel for hours.
This prolonged contact with plaque accelerates the demineralization process, leading to a higher risk of decay. An ill-fitting or bulky night guard may also force the mouth to remain slightly open during sleep, causing dry mouth. This further compromises saliva’s protective function, requiring the user to compensate for the temporary loss of natural oral defenses.
Essential Cleaning and Storage of the Night Guard
Maintaining the cleanliness of the device is a direct way to prevent it from becoming a reservoir for harmful oral bacteria. The night guard should be gently brushed with a dedicated, soft-bristled toothbrush immediately after removal each morning. Using a non-abrasive liquid soap or specialized appliance cleaner is recommended. Regular toothpaste can be too abrasive and may create microscopic scratches on the guard’s surface.
These tiny imperfections can allow bacteria and fungi to adhere and multiply more easily, forming a tough biofilm that is difficult to remove. Deep cleaning should be performed periodically, often weekly, by soaking the guard in denture cleaning tablets or a diluted mixture of white vinegar. Avoid using hot water, as high temperatures can warp the appliance and compromise its fit.
Proper storage is equally important for preventing microbial growth, which thrives in warm, damp, and sealed conditions. After cleaning, the night guard should be rinsed thoroughly and allowed to air dry completely before being placed in its case. The storage case itself should be ventilated and cleaned regularly with soap and water to prevent contamination.
Advanced Oral Hygiene While Wearing an Appliance
The most critical step in preventing cavities is ensuring the teeth are immaculate immediately before the night guard is inserted. Putting the appliance over teeth that have even a small amount of residual plaque or food debris effectively seals that material against the enamel for the entire duration of sleep. This pre-insertion routine must include thorough brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing to disrupt and remove all biofilm from every tooth surface.
To further fortify the enamel against the increased acid exposure, incorporating extra fluoride into the nightly routine can be beneficial. Using a fluoride-containing toothpaste helps to remineralize and strengthen the enamel, making it more resistant to acid breakdown. For individuals highly susceptible to decay, a dentist may recommend a prescription-strength fluoride rinse or gel for use just before placing the appliance.
Regular professional dental checkups and cleanings become even more necessary when wearing an appliance nightly. The dentist can monitor the teeth for early signs of decay that may be occurring underneath the guard’s coverage. They can also inspect the appliance itself for signs of wear or a poor fit, which could create new areas for bacteria to accumulate.