How to Clean and Maintain Your Night Guard?

May 12, 2022

Night guards have ample benefits. If your dentist recommends you receive one, it’s most likely for good reason – it can help you prevent grinding and preserve the functionality of your teeth. However, for it to be effective, it’s important to take good care of it. Following are some ways you can ensure your night guard stays clean and well-kept for as long as you have it.



Brush it Every Day

After taking your night guard out, lightly rinse it to get any plaque off and brush it with a toothbrush. You may use the same brush that you brush your teeth with or use a separate one. This will get rid of any additional plaque, bacteria, or little particles stuck on it.


However, it’s important to note that you should not use toothpaste when brushing it. Toothpaste can be abrasive so it could scratch or bend the night guard. The pressure from the bristles should be enough to clean it.


Store it in a Case

Whenever you’re not wearing it, it’s important to keep your night guard in a case. After rinsing and brushing it, before putting it in the case, let it completely dry by laying it out for about 30 minutes on a clean cloth. This will prevent rapid bacteria growth.


Keeping your night guard in a case protects it from many different things. If you leave it out on the counter in the bathroom, it’s exposed to humidity, which can cause it to warp and become misshapen. If you have pets or young children, they may get their hands (or paws) on it and chew or break them. If they’re not covered, they are also exposed to dirt, dust, and debris from the air.


Deep Clean it

About every week or so, you should give your night guard a deep clean. There are a few different options for doing this, one of which is buying a denture cleaner. You’ll place your night guard in a bowl of water and drop the cleaner tablet in, which will dissolve and clean your night guard. You can also do an at-home version of this, which is by mixing vinegar and hydrogen peroxide together and letting it soak for about 30 minutes.


Make sure to read all instructions on the denture cleaning and for any homemade solutions, as soaking it too long can bend and warp your night guard. Also never soak your it in any liquid that has alcohol, because that’s sure to ruin the material.


Contact Us Today

Custom fit night guards are a great solution to bruxism, which is excessive teeth grinding. If you suffer from teeth grinding and clenching and haven’t found a solution, we encourage you to come into our office for an evaluation.


We offer a full range of general dental services, including preventativerestorative, and cosmetic services. Give our friendly staff a call today for superior dental care and a lifetime of healthy smiles!

June 24, 2025
Pregnancy is a time of excitement, anticipation, and transformation. As your body adapts to nurture new life, your needs evolve—including your dental care. At Stephens Dentistry, we’re passionate about supporting expectant mothers through every stage of this journey. Understanding the connection between oral health and pregnancy is not just important for your smile, but for the wellbeing of both you and your baby.  How Pregnancy Impacts Oral Health Pregnancy brings about a surge in hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, which can have a profound effect on your gums and teeth. Many women notice changes in their oral health during pregnancy, including increased sensitivity, swelling, or bleeding gums. These shifts aren't just uncomfortable—they can also signal conditions that need attention to safeguard your overall health. Pregnancy Gingivitis: What You Need to Know One of the most common dental issues during pregnancy is pregnancy gingivitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , up to 60–75% of pregnant women develop gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. This occurs because hormonal changes heighten the body’s response to the bacteria in dental plaque. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis—a more serious gum infection that can cause tooth loss and has been linked to health risks beyond the mouth. Oral Health and Birth Outcomes The importance of oral health during pregnancy goes beyond comfort and aesthetics. Research has shown a significant link between maternal gum disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. A systematic review published in the Journal of Dental Research found that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to deliver prematurely or have babies with low birth weights. Although more research is ongoing, the potential connection means that taking care of your gums and teeth is an essential part of prenatal health. Why Dental Care Shouldn’t Wait Some expectant mothers worry about dental treatments during pregnancy. The good news is that routine dental care—including cleanings and necessary treatments—are not only safe but recommended during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists confirms that preventive dental work is important and can be performed safely, especially in the second trimester. Delaying care can allow small problems to become bigger ones, and untreated infections can pose a risk to both you and your baby. If you are planning to become pregnant, scheduling a dental checkup beforehand is an excellent way to get ahead of any issues. Practical Tips for Expectant Mothers Maintaining oral health during pregnancy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to keep your smile healthy throughout your pregnancy: Brush and Floss Regularly: Aim to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This helps remove plaque and reduce your risk of gingivitis. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on nutritious foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which support both your oral and overall health. Manage Morning Sickness: If you experience vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash rather than brushing immediately afterward, as stomach acid can soften tooth enamel. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and can also help combat dry mouth, which is common in pregnancy. Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Let your dental team know you are pregnant so they can tailor your care. At Stephens Dentistry, we take extra precautions to ensure your comfort and safety during each visit. Learn more about our preventive dental services . Recognizing When to Call Your Dentist While mild gum sensitivity is common, it’s important to reach out to your dentist if you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, or pain. These symptoms could indicate an infection that needs prompt attention. If you develop a dental emergency during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist—timely care is always the best choice for both you and your baby. Supporting Your Health at Stephens Dentistry At Stephens Dentistry, we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized dental care for every stage of life—including pregnancy. Our team stays up-to-date on the latest guidelines and safety protocols to ensure you receive the best care possible. For more information on how we support our patients during pregnancy, visit our dental care for families page. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and your smile should be a part of it. Prioritizing your oral health is a gift to yourself and your growing family. If you have questions or want to schedule your next dental visit, contact our office —we’re here to help you every step of the way.
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