Posted on 12/20/2019 by Amir Sanjabi, DDS
If you like engaging in sports, a mouth guard is one of the most important pieces of equipment that is applicable to safeguard your teeth and protect them from chipping or breaking.
A mouth guard also prevents any damage that might occur to the jaw’s soft tissue. Sadly, this important piece of equipment is mostly left in a dirty gym bag, leaving room for bacteria, fungi and yeast to form. To prevent unnecessary health issues, it is advisable to keep your mouth guard clean and sanitized. It is not that hard!
Why You Need A Clean Mouth Guard
Apart from the many physical dangers that pose against athletes, an ignored and dirty mouth can cause unimaginable problems. In a study conducted in 2011 that was published in “Sports Medicine”, investigators found mold, a wide variety of yeast, and bacteria on the mouth guards possessed by football players. An earlier study also linked unclean mouth guards to exercise induced-trauma.
It is important for athletes to ensure that their mouth guard is clean after use. This will play a major role in preventing microorganisms from setting up base in your mouth guard. The moment they are in your mouth guard, they can easily access your mouth.
How To Keep Your Mouth Guard Clean
Many people fall under the delusion that running water on your mouth guard is enough to clean it. This is wrong. We advise brushing it with a toothbrush and toothpaste to clear off traces of built up debris. You should lastly rinse it off with soapy water. By storing the mouth guard in its protective case, you will be able to keep it clean and ventilated to assist in drying and the subsequent prevention of bacteria growth.
After heavy use, your mouth guard is bound to develop cracks and pits that can be a good residential area for bacteria. Rough patches can also lead to skin breakage around the gums resulting in the entry of bacteria in the affected areas. The moment your mouth guard begins to show signs of wear, it is important to consult with us to get yourself a recommended pair. If you are new to mouth guards, feel free to consult with us on which direction to take.