Dr. Lysandro Tapnio is a proud sponsor of our local Jacksonville Seacoast Academy Seahawks, and many of our families have questions about the best way to care for a sports mouth guard. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers.

How often should a mouth guard be cleaned?

A sports mouth guard and the container it is kept in should be cleaned and dried after every use. Bacteria easily grow in a moist environment. Every time you wear your mouth guard, oral bacteria will be present on the mouth guard and easily transferred to your mouth guard container. Get in the habit of always washing and drying both your mouth guard and storage container before putting them away. Another best practice is to clean your teeth prior to wearing the mouth guard and again after wearing the mouth guard.

How should a mouth guard be cleaned?

Don’t use hot water to clean your mouth guard. Wash your mouth guard and its container with warm soapy water and thoroughly rinse them before drying them or leaving them to air dry on a clean towel.

How should a mouth guard be stored?

Use the container provided with your mouth guard because it has air vents. Make sure the container and mouth guard are dry prior to storage. Bacteria grow in a moist environment. If you lose your container, we can supply you with a new one.

Is there a difference between a store-bought mouth guard and a dentist-made mouth guard?

Yes. Over the counter sports mouth guards are not fabricated to fit to the dimensions of your mouth and the shape of your teeth. They are generic and tend to fit loosely and are too bulky for comfort. Because they don’t fit snugly, they are easily dislodged. Because they are bulky, they easily impede breathing. They can even make the soft tissue of the mouth sore. Children often remove them and are reluctant to wear them. A custom mouth guard that is fabricated by Dr. Tapnio to fit an impression of the mouth offers maximum protection.

When should a mouth guard be replaced?

A mouth guard should be constantly evaluated for fit and wear. If it shows signs of wear, such as cracks or tears, or if it feels too tight, you will want a new one that will provide better protection, as well as comfort. Growing children and teens usually need a new one every sports season. Adult players often wear one for two years before seeing significant signs of wear.

Should I bring my mouth guard to checkup appointments?

Yes. Bring your mouth guard to regular teeth cleaning and checkup appointments. Dr. Tapnio will evaluate the mouth guard and advise you if a new one is needed.