After investing in dental implants, protecting your new smile is just as important as the procedure itself. Whether youve received a mouthguard for teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw protection, or athletic use, proper care of your mouthguard ensures both the longevity of your dental implants and the health of your mouth.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, we educate our patients on the importance of mouthguard care after implant procedures. This guide shares effective tips for proper mouthguard care post-implant treatment to help you protect your implants, teeth, and oral health.
Why Wear a Mouthguard After Implant Treatment?
Protects implants from grinding forces.
Reduces stress on natural teeth and restorations.
Helps prevent jaw pain, headaches, and tooth wear.
Shields implants from trauma during sports or nighttime clenching.
Daily Mouthguard Care Routine
?? Rinse After Each Use
Rinse your mouthguard with lukewarm water (never hot) to remove saliva, debris, and bacteria.
?? Brush Gently
Use a soft toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste to clean the mouthguard daily.
Avoid harsh cleaners that can degrade the material.
?? Let It Air Dry Completely
Place the mouthguard on a clean, dry surface away from direct sunlight or heat.
Avoid sealing it in an airtight container while still wet, as this encourages bacterial growth.
Weekly Deep Cleaning
Soak the mouthguard in a solution of:
Mouthguard cleaning tablets, or
A mix of 1 part white vinegar and 1 part water for 1530 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
This removes buildup and helps prevent odors.
Proper Storage Matters
Store the mouthguard in a ventilated case when not in use.
Keep it away from petsdogs, in particular, love chewing on mouthguards!
Avoid leaving it in hot areas (like inside a car) to prevent warping.
What to Avoid
Do not use hot water to clean itheat can deform the mouthguard.
Avoid abrasive toothpaste that can scratch the surface.
Dont skip cleaningsthis can lead to bacteria and odor buildup.
Avoid chewing on the mouthguard, which can weaken its structure.
Check for Wear and Tear
Inspect your mouthguard regularly for cracks, holes, or thinning areas.
A damaged mouthguard may not protect your implants effectively.
Replace the mouthguard if it no longer fits snugly or shows signs of damage.
Mouthguard Lifespan
A well-maintained mouthguard typically lasts 6 months to 2 years, depending on use frequency and care.
Individuals who grind heavily may need replacements more often.
Why Its Crucial Post-Implant
Dental implants are strong but not indestructible.
Continuous grinding or trauma can:
Loosen implants over time.
Damage the prosthetic crown attached to the implant.
Cause gum irritation or jaw joint discomfort.
Protecting your investment with a properly maintained mouthguard is essential for long-term success.
When to Contact McLevin Dental
If your mouthguard feels loose or uncomfortable.
If the mouthguard shows cracks, holes, or warping.
If you experience jaw pain, tooth shifting, or implant discomfort while wearing the mouthguard.
Our team can adjust, replace, or remold your mouthguard as needed.
Trust McLevin Dental for Comprehensive Implant Aftercare
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, were committed to not only placing beautiful, functional dental implants but also helping you protect them for a lifetime. Our experts provide custom-fitted mouthguards and thorough guidance on how to care for them.
If you need a new mouthguard, an adjustment, or have concerns about your dental implants, reach out to us. We are here to help you maintain a comfortable, protected, and healthy smile.