A night guard, often referred to as an occlusal splint, is a custom-fitted oral appliance worn over the teeth while sleeping. Its primary purpose is to protect the teeth and jaw from bruxism, the unconscious grinding and clenching of the teeth. The guard acts as a cushion, absorbing intense forces and preventing tooth-on-tooth contact, which reduces excessive wear, fractures, and jaw pain. While beneficial for oral health, regular use often leads to yellow or cloudy discoloration, which indicates a buildup of material requiring specialized cleaning.
Understanding Night Guard Discoloration
Discoloration results from the night guard’s continuous exposure to the oral environment. The main culprit is the daily accumulation of plaque and biofilm, a complex matrix of bacteria and proteins that adheres to the surface. This microbial buildup leads to staining and unpleasant odors if not removed regularly. Discoloration is also caused by calcification, where minerals and proteins from saliva leave cloudy, whitish deposits on the plastic material. Furthermore, the guard can absorb pigments from the diet, especially from darkly colored beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine, which contain tannins.
Safe and Effective Deep Cleaning Methods
To restore clarity, deep cleaning methods must break down both organic biofilm and mineral deposits.
A highly effective option involves specialized dental appliance cleaning tablets. These are designed to safely dissolve plaque and stains using mild oxidizing agents. Use them according to the manufacturer’s instructions, generally involving a 10 to 15 minute soak in cool water. After soaking, gently brush the guard with a soft toothbrush to remove loosened residue before a final, thorough rinse.
A popular household method utilizes a mixture of white vinegar and water. White vinegar contains acetic acid, which is useful for dissolving calcium and mineral deposits left by saliva. Submerge the night guard in a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water for 15 to 30 minutes. The guard must then be rinsed completely with cool water to remove all traces of the vinegar, preventing a lingering taste.
Another alternative involves creating a paste using baking soda and water. Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a mild abrasive that offers gentle mechanical cleaning to lift surface stains and neutralize odors. Apply the paste to the guard with a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently scrub all surfaces. After scrubbing, rinse the appliance thoroughly under cool running water to ensure no residue remains.
Practices That Can Damage Your Night Guard
Certain common cleaning practices can permanently compromise the appliance’s integrity and fit. The most damaging mistake is using abrasive materials, such as standard toothpastes, which contain microscopic particles. These particles create tiny micro-scratches on the plastic surface. These scratches form crevices where bacteria quickly colonize, leading to faster discoloration and odor. Only a soft-bristled brush or a non-abrasive soap should be used for daily cleaning.
Exposure to high heat is another significant risk, as the thermoplastic material is designed to mold to the mouth’s contours. Placing the appliance in boiling water, a dishwasher, or leaving it in a hot car can soften the material and cause it to warp. Warping changes the precise fit, rendering the guard ineffective and potentially causing discomfort or jaw misalignment. Harsh chemical cleaners, like household bleach, must also be avoided because they degrade the specialized plastic and may leave toxic residues that are harmful if ingested.