How to Clean and Maintain Your Clear Night Guard Properly

July 04, 2025

Keep it clear, clean, and comfortable — every night.

If you wear a clear night guard to protect your teeth from grinding or clenching, you already know it’s a smart investment in your long-term dental health. But like anything you use daily, your night guard needs the right care to keep it working — and looking — its best.

From preventing yellowing to knowing when it’s time to replace it, here’s your go-to guide on how to clean and maintain your clear night guard properly.

Daily Cleaning Tips for Longevity

Cleaning your night guard only takes a minute — but that minute makes a huge difference.

Daily routine:

Rinse your guard immediately after removing it in the morning. Use lukewarm (not hot!) water to avoid warping.
Use a soft toothbrush (not your regular one) to gently scrub the surface with clear, unscented soap or mild dish soap.
Let it air dry completely on a clean towel or in a ventilated case to prevent bacteria buildup.

💡 Pro tip: Avoid toothpaste — many contain abrasives that can scratch and cloud your guard.

Do’s and Don’ts of Night Guard Care

Here's how to get the most out of your clear night guard:

✅ DO:

Clean it daily
Store it in a ventilated case (not airtight)
Soak it weekly in a denture-cleaning tablet or a vinegar/water mix
Wash your case regularly too

❌ DON’T:

Use hot water or put it in the dishwasher
Use mouthwash or alcohol-based cleaners (they can dry out or discolor it)
Skip cleaning for more than a day
Leave it in direct sunlight or a hot car

If your clear guard is from NewSmile, it’s made from high-quality materials — but it still needs care to maintain its clarity and structure over time.

How to Prevent Yellowing and Odors

Over time, even the clearest night guard can develop discoloration or odors — but these are mostly preventable with proper upkeep.

To prevent yellowing:

Avoid eating or drinking (especially coffee or wine) while wearing your night guard
Store it dry — bacteria thrives in moist, enclosed environments
Deep clean once a week with a non-abrasive tablet soak

To prevent odors:

Brush your guard thoroughly with mild soap
Rinse well before AND after each use
Never leave it sitting in water all day

When to Replace Your Guard

A well-maintained night guard can last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years, depending on how heavily you grind and how well you care for it.

Signs it’s time for a replacement:

Cracks or splits in the material
Warping or changes in fit
Cloudy or yellowed appearance that doesn’t come clean
Unusual odors, even after cleaning
Jaw pain or new tooth sensitivity

If you purchased your clear night guard from NewSmile, you can easily reorder using your saved impressions — no need to redo the process unless your teeth have changed.

🛒 Order a replacement or your first custom-fit night guard here →

Final Thoughts: Clean Night Guard, Clean Sleep

Your clear night guard is your first line of defense against grinding-related damage. A little daily care goes a long way in keeping it — and your smile — in top shape.

By keeping your guard clean, dry, and replaced when needed, you’ll ensure it lasts longer, stays fresher, and continues doing its job while you sleep peacefully.

Ready to start fresh with a high-quality, custom-fit clear night guard?
Check out NewSmile’s custom guard here — easy to order, made in pro dental labs, and delivered right to your door.