Post-Operative Instructions for Mouthguard Patients
Custom Mouthguard Aftercare | Dental Clinic South Melbourne
Thank you for trusting Genesis Dentists, North Melbourne for your custom mouthguard.
Expert sports dentistry and bruxism treatment start with proper mouthguard care, essential
for protecting teeth, preventing dental injuries, and ensuring long-lasting oral health.
Discover professional aftercare tips designed to maximise the performance and comfort of
your dental mouthguard.
What to Expect After Your Dental Mouthguard Fitting
- Initial adjustment may include increased saliva or minor speech changes—these are temporary and normal for mouthguard wearers.
- Contact our North Melbourne clinic if your mouthguard feels too tight, loose, or uncomfortable.
How to Use Your Mouthguard
- Wear your mouthguard every time you participate in contact sports, training sessions, or at night to prevent teeth grinding and jaw clenching.
- Do not share your mouthguard to avoid damage and cross-contamination.
- Use clean hands for insertion and removal. Avoid biting- it preserves fit and comfort.
- Bring your mouthguard to regular dental check-ups for monitoring and professional
cleaning.
Daily Cleaning Instructions for Mouthguard Care
- Rinse your mouthguard after every use with cool or lukewarm water—never hot, as it can warp the appliance.
- Gently clean with a soft toothbrush and mild, alcohol-free soap or nonabrasive toothpaste. This prevents bacterial build-up.
- Air dry your mouthguard completely before placing it in its ventilated case.
- Avoid bleach, harsh chemicals, or boiling water, which can damage your mouthguard.
Weekly Deep Cleaning & Maintenance
- Soak in a denture cleaner or diluted hydrogen peroxide solution once a week to thoroughly eliminate bacteria.
- Rinse well after soaking to remove any residue.
- Follow specific recommendations from your dentist if using a mouthguard for children, braces, or nighttime teeth grinding
Safe Storage & Handling
- Always store your mouthguard in a ventilated case to prevent accidental damage and bacterial growth.
- Do not leave it in hot locations (like cars or sunny windows) to preserve its shape.
- Clean your storage case regularly and keep your mouthguard away from pets and direct heat sources.
Extra Aftercare Tips
- Brush and floss teeth before each use to keep both your teeth and mouthguard clean.
- Never chew or bite your mouthguard—this can shorten its lifespan and reduce protective benefits.
- Schedule a dental review if you notice changes in fit or signs of wear and tear.Replacements may be needed for growing children, orthodontic patients, or due to normal appliance wear
When to Contact Your Dentist
- Persistent discomfort, pain, or mouth sores
- Visible cracks, warping, or wear
- Fit changes after dental treatment or orthodontics
- Lost appliances—request a replacement promptly for ongoing dental protection
- Paediatric mouthguard care
- Sports dentistry
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mouthguards
Q: Why do patients need a custom mouthguard?
A: A custom dental mouthguard provides superior protection against sports injuries, dental trauma, and teeth grinding compared to store-bought options.
Q: How do I clean my custom mouthguard?
A: Rinse after each use, brush gently with mild soap, air dry, and deep clean weekly using denture cleaner or diluted hydrogen peroxide.
Q: Can mouthguards be worn with braces?
A: Yes. Dental clinics custom-fit mouthguards to accommodate orthodontic appliances for maximum protection.
Q: How often should I replace my mouthguard?
A: Replace if cracked, warped, ill-fitting, or annually for children and teens whose teeth are changing.
Q: Does private health insurance cover mouthguards?
A: Most dental extras policies offer coverage for one custom-fitted mouthguard per year—check with your provider or ask your dentist for details.
Q: Can a mouthguard help with teeth grinding or TMJ?
A: Yes. Night guards protect against bruxism and help manage temporomandibular joint (TMJ) symptoms.
Q: What should I do if I lose my mouthguard?
A: Contact your dental clinic immediately for a replacement to maintain continuous protection.