It’s common knowledge that caring for your pearly whites involves maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine and visiting your dentist for your biannual checkups and cleanings. However, another part of keeping your smile in its best condition is protecting it with a customized mouthguard. Whether you grind your teeth at night or are very physically active, one of the best things you can do for your dental health is to wear protective gear for your mouth. Read on to learn three tips to get the most out of your mouthguard.
Tip #1: Use Proper Care for Longevity
Fortunately, there is not a lot of maintenance regarding your customized dental mouthpiece, but you’ll want to be sure to take good care of it, so it lasts as long as possible. To save you money and time, it’s best to be mindful of certain habits. Here are a few to ensure that your mouthguard will continue protecting your pearly whites for years to come without having to be replaced:
- Rinse your mouthguard thoroughly with cold water after every use.
- Always avoid using hot water while cleaning your mouthguard as it can damage it. You don’t want it to become misshaped.
- Be sure to store your mouthguard in a hard, protective case that can circulate air.
- Wash the nightguard storage case every two to three days to ensure a bacteria-free environment.
- Allow your nightguard to completely dry on a clean surface before storing it; you don’t want it to become a breeding ground for mildew!
Tip #2: Make It a Consistent Habit to Wear During Recommended Times
If your dentist recommended a mouthguard due to your bruxism (teeth grinding), it will be wise to start a consistent routine at night so you don’t forget to wear it. For example, if you have a habit of nodding off on the couch each night, you may want to place your storage case in a drawer near where you lay so it can be easily reached. The main point is to place it in a location for easy and convenient use, even when you are exhausted from work. You don’t want to leave your smile susceptible to the consequences of teeth grinding, like enamel erosion and sore jaw joints.
The same holds true if you wear your dental guard when you play sports or participate in rigorous activities. Place it in your gym bag or your car so your pearly whites will always be protected!
Tip #3: Bring Your Mouthguard to Be Regularly Examined By Your Dentist
When you visit your dentist every six months for your exam and cleaning, it’s always a good idea to bring your mouthguard so they can inspect it and make sure that it still fits properly. You want it to always fit your smile perfectly for maximum protection. Some dentists can even professionally sanitize it for you so you can leave their office with a bright smile and a fresh, clean mouthguard.
Compared to the benefits of your customized mouthpiece, taking care of it to maximize its protection is relatively easy! By maintaining these effective habits, you’ll continue to have a strong, healthy smile that will last for years to come.
About the Practice
Longmont Complete Dentistry is eager to protect your smile and keep it healthy through the expertise of its father-son dentists. They provide a full range of services, including comprehensive preventive care, including customized mouthguards. With the goal of keeping you out of the dental chair as much as possible, they use personalized plans and high-quality dentistry (all under one roof) to keep your oral health in top condition. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (303) 772-7000.