If you participate in high-contact sports and activities, like basketball, soccer, football, rugby and boxing, then you need to protect your smile with a mouth guard. However, the mouth guard will only protect your teeth, gums and jaw if you take good care of it. This means you need to clean and care for it regularly. To help you do so, our dentist, Dr. Phillip White, encourages you to do the following things:
-Step No. 1: Clean the appliance after each use by gently scrubbing it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste. If you don’t have oral hygiene tools, make sure to rinse it with water.
-Step No. 2: After cleaning the appliance, put it in its case and store it in a safe place where it won’t get lost. You should also avoid placing it in an area that has a warm environment. The heat can warp the appliance.
-Step No. 3: Avoid chewing on your appliance when it’s in the mouth. You should also replace your appliance at the beginning of each sports season. This is because the appliance likely collects plaque, and plaque is dangerous for the teeth, gums and smile.
For more information and details about caring for mouth guards in Wichita, Kansas, please reach out to our dental team at Dental Corner. When you dial 316-681-2425, we will be more than happy to give you the answers and help you need. We look forward to hearing from you and telling you all about mouthguards!