Sports guards are essential to safeguard your teeth while engaging in physical activities. They minimize the risk of injuries, particularly in contact sports. However, to ensure they continue to function properly, it is essential to clean and maintain them regularly. Knowing how to maintain sports guards will ensure you keep them in good shape and prolong their use.
Why Maintenance Is So Important
Just as your toothbrush or any other mouth-going item, sports guards can harbour bacteria, plaque, and debris. If not regularly cleaned, they can become smelly or even cause oral health issues. That’s why it is important to know how to maintain sports guards for hygiene and safety purposes.
Daily Cleaning Is a Key
Rinse your sports guard with cool or lukewarm water after every use. This removes surface dirt immediately. Never use hot water, as it is likely to alter the shape of the material. A splash of water and letting it air dry can work wonders in keeping your guard fresh and clean.
By following cleaning tips for sports guards regularly, you ensure consistency and prevent the buildup that will be more difficult to clean in the future.
Weekly Deep Cleaning
Aside from rinsing daily, your sports guard must also be deep cleaned every week. You can perform this using a toothbrush with soap. Steer clear of toothpaste since it is too abrasive for the surface.
For deeper cleaning, soak your guard in a solution of vinegar and water or water with a denture-cleaning tablet. These cleaning tips for sports guards are simple to use and remove bacteria that regular rinsing may not catch.
Dry Before Storing
One of the simplest ways to ruin your sports guard is by storing it while it’s damp. Water can cause bacteria and even mould. Always allow your guard to air dry on a clean surface before storing it in its case.
If you’re wearing sports guards in Vancouver, this step will be particularly useful in avoiding moisture issues, particularly in damp weather.
Use a Proper Storage Case
Keep your sports guard in a ventilated case when not being used. This keeps it from dust and lets air pass through. A case also makes the guard more convenient to carry to practices or games.
Don’t forget to clean the case itself now and then. Even when your sports guard is clean, putting it in a dirty case will ruin the benefits of your cleaning session.
If you’ve received your guard from a dental clinic near you, they may also provide or recommend a case designed specifically for this purpose.
Avoid Common Mistakes
Here are some things to avoid:
- Don’t leave your sports guard in direct sunlight or a hot car
- Don’t chew on it – this weakens the material
- Don’t skip cleaning after use
- Don’t use strong chemicals that could damage the surface
These easy steps are also as crucial as cleaning and can ensure your guard lasts much longer.
When to Get a New Sports Guard
Despite regular cleaning, sports guards do not last forever. You may need a replacement if:
- The guard is loose or no longer fits properly
- Some cracks or holes can be seen
- The material has worn away
- It has a lingering odour even after cleaning
Individuals who wear sports guards in Vancouver should bring their sports guards to dental appointments for a check-up. Your dentist will be able to let you know if it is time for a replacement.
Caring for Your Guard While Traveling
If you travel for games or training, bring your storage case and a travel toothbrush with mild soap or a cleaning tablet. Even when you’re on the road, following the same cleaning method preserves the quality of your sports guard.
Keeping them in your sports bag ensures that you can easily clean your guard after each practice or game.
Discuss with Your Dental Team
It’s a good opportunity to discuss any issues you have with your sports guard at regular dental check-ups. Your dentist can inspect for damage, provide advice on how to clean it more effectively and arrange a replacement if necessary. They can also inspect whether the fit is still correct for your mouth.
Taking advice from a dental clinic near you helps you remain on the right track with proper treatment and cleaning procedures.
Keep Your Smile Safe with Proper Care
It does not require much time to take care of your sports guard, yet it makes all the difference. Simple routines of rinsing, brushing, drying, and keeping it in storage properly help to keep your guard clean and perform efficiently for the longest time possible.
Schedule Sports Guard Help at Key Dental Clinic
You can count on the staff at Key Dental Clinic for assistance with cleaning or replacing your sports guard. If you’re searching for sports guards in Vancouver or tips for caring for sports guards, we’re glad to help. Schedule your appointment with our dental clinic near you and defend your smile.