The gum shield, of course, is your best friend in the ring. It protects your mouth, which is defending against your opponent. But then, it's part of your personal gear; therefore, it requires attending.
Cleaning a gum shield is one very important aspect of gear maintenance, and cleaning it up is pretty simple. We take you through getting your mouthguard clean and fresh, so it stays in shape and ready for the next round.
What is the Best Way to Clean a Mouthguard?
Cleaning your mouthguard doesn't require any special equipment or expensive products. Here's a simple step-by-step process:
1. Rinse your mouthguard with cool water immediately after use. This helps to remove any immediate debris and bacteria.
2. Brush your mouthguard gently with a toothbrush. Avoid using toothpaste as it can be abrasive. We recommend spraying the Safejawz Mouth Guard Disinfectant Spray at this stage too which helps disinfect your mouth guard.
3. Soak your mouthguard in a solution of warm water for about 30 minutes.
4. Rinse your mouthguard again with cool water.
5. Let your mouthguard dry completely before storing it. This prevents the growth of bacteria and mold.
Remember, high temperatures can damage your mouthguard, so avoid using hot water during the cleaning process.
You can find a variety of mouthguards suitable for different sports at Made4Fighters. We offer a wide range of brands like Shock Doctor, SISU, and Venum.
If you're into boxing, check out our boxing mouthguards collection. For MMA enthusiasts, we have a dedicated collection of MMA mouthguards.
How Do You Get Black Mold Out of a Mouthguard?
Black mold on your mouthguard is a sign that it's not being cleaned properly or often enough. It's crucial to remove this mold as it can lead to health issues.
First, brush your mouthguard thoroughly with a toothbrush to remove any loose mold. Then, soak it in a solution of denture cleaner and warm water for at least 30 minutes. This should help to kill the mold and disinfect your mouthguard. After soaking, rinse it thoroughly and let it dry completely before storing it.
If you're struggling with persistent mold, it might be time to replace your mouthguard. At Made4Fighters, we offer a range of mouthguards from brands like SafeJawz and Bytomic. You can even keep your mouthguard safe and clean with the Shock Doctor Heavy Duty Mouthguard Case.
Stay tuned for the next part of this guide where we'll answer more questions about cleaning your mouthguard and provide additional tips to keep it in top shape.
What else could I Soak My Mouthguard In?
While warm water and hydrogen peroxide make a great cleaning solution for your mouthguard, there are other options you can consider. Denture cleaner is a popular choice due to its antibacterial properties. Simply dissolve a denture cleaning tablet in warm water and soak your mouthguard for about 30 minutes. This should help to remove any stubborn stains and kill bacteria.
As previously mentioned another option is a specialized mouthguard cleaning solution, like the SafeJawz Mouth Guard Disinfectant Spray. This spray is designed specifically for cleaning mouthguards and is easy to use. Just spray it on, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse off.
How Many Gum Shields Should I Own?
It's a good idea to have at least two gum shields. This way, you always have a backup in case one gets lost or damaged. Plus, having more than one allows you to rotate them, giving each mouthguard a chance to dry out completely between uses, which helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
If you're looking for a new gum shield, consider the Clear Bytomic Adult Gumshield. It's a great option for adults and is clear, making it less noticeable during use.
For more information on choosing the right protection for your sport, don't miss our guide on the best gum shields for boxing, where we reveal our top 5 picks.
What is the Black Stuff in My Mouth Guard?
The black stuff in your mouthguard is likely mold or bacteria that has grown due to improper cleaning or storage. It's important to clean your mouthguard after every use and let it dry completely before storing it to prevent this. If you notice black stuff in your mouthguard, clean it thoroughly and consider replacing it if the black stuff doesn't come out.
For a variety of mouthguard options, check out our collections of Karate mouthguards and Wrestling mouthguards. We offer mouthguards from top brands like SISU and Shock Doctor that are designed to provide maximum protection while you're playing sports.
Stay tuned for the final part of this guide where we'll answer more questions about cleaning your mouthguard and provide additional tips to keep it in top shape.
Will Baking Soda Clean a Mouthguard?
Yes, baking soda can be used to clean a mouthguard. It's a natural cleaner and deodorizer that can help remove stains and eliminate odors. To clean your mouthguard with baking soda, make a paste with a small amount of baking soda and water. Apply this paste to your mouthguard and brush it gently with a toothbrush. Make sure to rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before storing.
Can You Use Vinegar to Clean Mouth Guard?
Vinegar is another natural cleaning solution that can be used to clean your mouthguard. Its acidity helps to kill bacteria and remove stains. However, it's important to dilute the vinegar with water before soaking your mouthguard to avoid damaging it. After soaking, rinse your mouthguard thoroughly to remove any vinegar taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mouth Guard Maintenance
Can I clean my mouthguard with chemicals?
Using chemicals to clean your mouthguard isn't always the best choice, as some substances can damage the material or create health risks.
What Happens If You Don't Wash Mouth Guard?
If you don't wash your mouthguard, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. This not only makes your mouthguard unsanitary to use, but it can also lead to bad breath and potentially oral infections.
Can I Wash My Mouth Guard with Toothpaste?
While it might seem like a good idea to wash your mouthguard with toothpaste, it's actually not recommended. Toothpaste can be abrasive and may scratch the surface of your mouthguard, creating small crevices where bacteria can hide. Instead, stick to gentle brushing with a soft toothbrush and soaking in a cleaning solution.
Can I Soak My Mouth Guard in Bleach?
No, while bleach is a powerful disinfectant it's not recommended for cleaning mouthguards. Bleach can be too harsh and may degrade the material of your mouthguard over time. Stick to gentle, non-abrasive cleaners!
Why Does My Mouth Guard Smell?
A smelly mouthguard is usually a sign of bacteria or mold growth. This can occur if your mouthguard isn't cleaned regularly or if it's stored while still damp. To prevent odors, clean your mouthguard after each use and allow it to dry completely before storing it.
Remember, a clean mouthguard is a happy mouthguard. Regular cleaning not only extends the life of your mouthguard but also ensures it's safe and comfortable to use. Whether you're grinding your teeth at night or playing sports, a well-maintained mouthguard is essential for protecting your mouth.
For all your mouthguard needs, visit Made4Fighters. We offer a wide range of mouthguards and cleaning products to keep you protected in the ring.