How to Clean a Mouth Splint: A Comprehensive Guide

Something that is so useful in the treatment of teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw disorders, and sleep apnea, as mouth splints are some. However, in order for your mouth splint to function and stay sanitary correctly, periodically it is important that you tidy the same. Over time, bacteria, plaque and food debris may build up which can harm oral health. The body of this guide will explain to you the process step by step in how to clean a mouth splint properly.

What Is a Mouth Splint?

A mouth splint is a custom-made dental appliance that is worn over the teeth to prevent them from becoming damaged through grinding or clenching and often these habits are nocturnal. For those suffering from conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) and sleep apnea, use can alleviate pressure placed on the jaw and teeth. Whether it is in hard acrylic or a softer material, keeping your mouth splint clean is crucial, so as to prevent the growth of bacteria and to ensure its longevity.

Getting Your Mouth Splint Cleaned

It is important to clean regularly for your mouthpiece.

Prohibits Bacterial Growth: A mouth splint that is not cleaned regularly can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to bad breath, gum disease or even infections.

Increases The Lifespan: Obviously, when also the cleansing of a splint is going on, it helps to conserve the material of the splint, making sure that there will certainly be no tarnishing or weakening.

Prevents Oral Health Issues: It is important to clean the splint because otherwise, you would be allowing harmful bacteria in your mouth.

How Often Should You Clean Your Mouth Splint?

Just like leaving your kids retainer out, you need to clean your mouth splint after every use to keep it bacteria-free. This level of cleaning will need to be done at least once weekly to ensure all residue, and staining is scrubbed away.

How to Clean a Mouth Splint in Easy Steps

1. Rinse After Every Use

Rinse the mouth splint with warm water after removing it. This will help cleanse saliva, bacteria and food together that may have lodged in your mouth throughout the night.

2. Use a Soft Toothbrush

Get a soft bristled toothbrush and scrub the splint lightly. As toothpaste is too abrasive and could possibly scratch or wear down the material. Use a soft bristled brush to lift debris from the surface.

3. Soak in a Denture Cleaner

To clean it a bit deeper, you can soak your mouth splint in denture cleaning solution or a mild soap and water solution. Follow these steps:

• Put lukewarm water in a glass or bowl.
• Put in the denture cleaning tablet or a small amount of mild liquid soap.
• Soak the Splint (15-20 minutes)

This process will work to break down harsh stains that can only be removed with water and a cleaning brush.

4. Rinse Thoroughly

If you have rinsed the mouth splint, make certain that you use running water while doing it to effectively remove any soap or cleaning solution left behind. Eating or drinking cleaning substances could also irritate your mouth.

5. Let It Air Dry

Let Splint Air Dry Completely Before Storing Do not store it while still damp, as this may cause the bacteria to develop. Place the mouth splint on a clean or paper towel, in a cool, dry area not in direct sunlight

Deep Clean Your Mouth Splint Weekly

You can use that solution and spray out your shelves a little every day, of course, but every so often (say, once a week) — give them a good clean. Steps to deep clean your mouth splint are as follows:

1. Use a Vinegar Solution

Mix white vinegar and water in equal parts. Soak your mouth splint in this solution and leave it for 30 minutes to fully eliminate all stains, Rinse well.

2. Baking Soda Rinse

Brace: Soak in vinegar, then make a baking soda paste with water and toothbrush mouth splint This will have a neutralizing effect of any odors and allow for the penetration of dirt to be more thorough.

If you wanted to know, here are some do’s and don’ts of cleaning a mouth splint.

By following some simple guidelines, you can keep your mouth splint functional for a long time woolooshields.

Do’s:

• By cleaning every day, you will keep plaque and build-up of bacteria at bay.
• Clean it by soaking in lukewarm water and slightly brushing on to clean.
• Put it in a clean, dry case when not wearing.
• Try the denture or vinegar solution soaking method once a week for thorough cleaning.
• Don’ts:
• Use warm — not hot — water, since warmth may warp or bend the splint.
• Do not use toothpaste or strong cleaning products such as bleach.
• Decide not to store it wet because wet fur can grow bacteria and mold.
• Don’t leave this product under the sun or any other high-temperature environment because it can damage the material.

Does Listerine Work To Clean A Mouth Splint?

Listerine is mouthwash but will ruin your new cleaning routine for your mouth splint. Alcohol in Listerine can deteriorate the splint material, making it brittle and eventually causing it to dry or crack. This should be cleaned using a gentler solution, like denture cleaners or just some mild soap.

How To Properly Store A Mouth Splint

Storage is as important as cleaning it. These are steps you need to follow so that the splint for your mouth is kept uptight.

Drying: When you clean it, then your mouth splint has to be dry.

Ventilated Case: Keep it in a ventilated case to facilitate the air flow and avoid any moisture build up. They will be far back, and sealed containers can have moisture in them, which leads to the growth of bacteria.

Avoid Heat and Sunlight: Always store the case in a cool, dry location away from heat and sunlight, as they could warp the splint.

Replace Your Mouth Splint

The good news is that mouth splints, even with the best available maintenance and cleaning practices, will eventually deteriorate. Most types of oral splints, depending on their material and use, will need to be replaced approximately every 1-2 years. Look for any cracks, warping or if it turns purple (it should only turn a lilac blue under the stress of light). If the removal of a splint from your teeth is more than four days old, or if it has already been in place for 2 years, does not fit or is otherwise damaged and no longer provides adequate protection, you should contact your healthcare professional.

Also read: How to Remove Black Stains from Teeth Naturally

 

Conclusion: How to Clean a Mouth Splint:

Your mouth guards should be thoroughly cleaned to ensure your oral hygiene, in addition to the longevity of the splint. This will help keep the mouth splint always clean and hygienic and also in best of condition. Cleaning will not only mean that the splint is as bacteria-free as possible but it can work more efficiently for longer. Remember that you need to be gentle and do not use toothpaste or any harsh chemical for cleaning it, as it may cause damage to its material.