A night guard is a custom-fitted oral appliance designed to protect your teeth, jaw joints, and surrounding muscles from the damaging effects of bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching. This protective device must maintain its precise shape and remain thoroughly hygienic to function correctly. Consequently, the way you store your night guard when it is not in your mouth is just as important as wearing it nightly. Proper storage prevents the growth of harmful bacteria, preserves the material’s structural integrity, and maximizes the lifespan of your investment.
Preparation Before Storage
The process of proper storage begins immediately after the night guard is removed from your mouth each morning. The appliance is coated in saliva, plaque, and oral debris, which must be thoroughly removed before it is put away for the day. Start by rinsing the guard immediately under cool or lukewarm water to wash away any loose material. Avoid using hot water, as the elevated temperature can potentially distort the appliance’s fit.
After the initial rinse, the night guard requires a gentle cleaning with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use a non-abrasive liquid hand soap or a specialized dental appliance cleaner. Avoid using standard toothpaste, as the abrasive particles commonly found in it can create microscopic scratches on the guard’s surface. These tiny imperfections become ideal harbors for bacteria and fungi, leading to odor and potential oral health issues.
Once cleaning is complete and the guard has been rinsed clear of any residue, the next step is drying. Placing a damp night guard directly into a closed container creates a warm, moist environment where microorganisms can rapidly multiply. To prevent this, the guard must be air-dried completely on a clean, flat surface, such as a paper towel. This process typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes and ensures that surface moisture is evaporated before storage.
Choosing the Right Storage Environment
Once the appliance is completely dry, it should be placed into a dedicated storage case that provides both protection and ventilation. The ideal night guard case features perforations or small vents to permit residual moisture to escape. This airflow prevents the buildup of unpleasant odors and mold, reducing the risk of microbial growth.
The storage container should be made of a durable material to prevent the guard from being crushed or damaged if accidentally dropped. A clean night guard should never be placed into a dirty case. Therefore, the case should be cleaned regularly, such as a quick wash with mild soap and water weekly, and allowed to air dry completely before the guard is returned to it.
The location of the stored night guard must be cool and dry, maintaining a stable temperature away from sources of heat or humidity. Storing the case in the bathroom is discouraged because the steam and temperature fluctuations from showers can compromise the guard’s plastic material. A bedside table or a cabinet drawer offers a more consistent and appropriate environment for storage, keeping the appliance safe and accessible.
Common Storage Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most destructive mistakes is exposing the night guard to high temperatures, which can permanently alter its shape and effectiveness. The polymer materials used in most guards are thermoplastic, meaning they soften and warp when subjected to excessive heat. This includes leaving the guard near a radiator, in direct sunlight, or inside a hot vehicle.
Another common error involves using inappropriate containers that do not allow for proper air circulation. Storing the guard in a sealed plastic bag, a cotton cloth, or wrapping it in a tissue traps moisture against the surface of the material. This lack of ventilation encourages the proliferation of bacteria and mold.
While cleaning solutions are helpful for weekly deep cleans, leaving the night guard soaking in any liquid for an extended period is ill-advised. Prolonged exposure, especially to chemicals like mouthwash or certain denture cleaners, can cause the material to degrade or become brittle over time. Finally, always be mindful of household pets, who are often attracted to the scent of the oral appliance and may chew and destroy the guard if it is left exposed.