How to make a custom night guard actually last
Get your night guard
Order your kitIt ships with trays, putty and a printed guide.
Mold your teeth at homeAbout ten minutes at your kitchen table.
We build it in the USAA custom soft guard, ready in roughly four days.
Wear it at nightSeat it before bed, rinse it and case it in the morning.
A custom night guard lasts longest with a daily rinse, a ventilated case and no hot water. Most guards hold up 6 to 12 months this way, whether you chose the $119 soft build or the $159 hybrid.
Cleaning it without wrecking the material
- Rinse with cool water right after you take it out.
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a denture cleaner.
- Skip hot water. It can warp the material and change the fit.
Where to keep it during the day
Store it in a ventilated case so air can reach it and bacteria does not build up in a sealed container. Keep the case out of direct sun or a hot car, which can soften the material the same way hot water does.
Signs it is time for a new one
- Thinning in the areas where your teeth press hardest
- Visible cracks or a torn edge
- A looser fit than when it was new
- Discoloration that will not clean off
A quick weekly deep clean
Alongside the daily rinse, a weekly soak in a denture or retainer cleaning solution helps clear buildup that brushing alone can miss. Rinse it well afterward before you wear it again, since leftover cleaning solution can leave a taste or irritate the gums. An ultrasonic cleaner does the same job faster if you would rather not soak it overnight.
Soft or hybrid, the care is the same
The cleaning routine above works the same way for both the soft and hybrid build. If you are still deciding which one to order, see our side by side guard comparison first.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I clean my night guard
Rinse it every time you take it out, and give it a gentle brush with mild soap or a denture cleaner a few times a week.
Can I use mouthwash on my night guard
A quick rinse is fine, but soaking it in strong mouthwash regularly can dry out and discolor the material over time. Mild soap and water is the safer daily habit.
Is a night guard HSA or FSA eligible
Night guards are commonly listed as medical expenses under IRS Publication 502. Your plan administrator makes the final determination for your plan.
How long should a night guard last with good care
Most guards last 6 to 12 months. Thinning, cracks or a looser fit are the signs it is time to order a new one.
Order the night guard and muscle relaxer, add an ultrasonic cleaner to your routine, and check how HSA and FSA payment works.
Smile Lab USA is made in the USA, with a 60 day manufacturer warranty on every appliance.