How to Get Rid of That White Crust: Removing Calcium Buildup From Your Mouthguard
Your trusty mouthguard: a hero on the field or in the ring, protecting your teeth from impact. But over time, that trusty protector can become a victim of calcium buildup, leaving a white crusty layer that can be unsightly and even harbor bacteria. Fear not, warrior! This guide will walk you through removing that pesky calcium and restoring your mouthguard to its former glory.
The Science Behind the Crust
Calcium deposits form on your mouthguard due to the natural minerals present in saliva. This happens especially with extended use, as your mouthguard becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and mineral deposits. The good news? It's a pretty easy fix!
How to Remove Calcium Build-up from Your Mouthguard:
Here's a step-by-step guide based on the advice from Wikihow, with some added insights:
1. Gather Your Supplies:
- Mouthguard: You'll need the star of the show.
- Warm Water: This will help loosen the calcium deposits.
- Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Gentle cleaning is key.
- Baking Soda: A natural and effective cleaning agent (see Wikihow's "How to Use Baking Soda to Clean Your Mouthguard" article).
- White Vinegar (optional): An alternative to baking soda, but it might require a bit more soaking time.
2. Pre-Soak the Mouthguard:
- Fill a bowl with warm water and submerge your mouthguard for 15-20 minutes.
- This will help soften the calcium deposits, making them easier to remove.
3. Baking Soda Magic:
- Make a paste: Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water to create a thick paste (see Wikihow's article on "How to Clean a Mouthguard with Baking Soda").
- Apply and scrub: Apply the paste to the mouthguard with your soft-bristled toothbrush. Scrub gently, focusing on the areas with the most calcium build-up.
- Rinse thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the mouthguard with water to remove all traces of the baking soda.
4. Vinegar Alternative (Optional):
- Soak it: If you prefer, you can soak your mouthguard in a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar for 30-60 minutes (see Wikihow's article on "How to Clean a Mouthguard with Vinegar").
- Scrub and rinse: After soaking, scrub with your toothbrush and rinse thoroughly.
5. Shine It Up:
- Rinse thoroughly: After using baking soda or vinegar, ensure you rinse your mouthguard thoroughly. Any residue can irritate your mouth.
- Dry completely: Lay your mouthguard out on a clean towel to air dry completely.
- Storage: Once dry, store your mouthguard in a clean, dry container to prevent future buildup.
Pro Tips for Mouthguard Maintenance:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your mouthguard regularly, even if it doesn't look dirty. This helps prevent the build-up of bacteria and calcium.
- Brushing after use: Rinse your mouthguard thoroughly after each use, and brush it with a soft-bristled toothbrush if necessary.
- Boiling: For a deeper clean, boil your mouthguard in water for 10-15 minutes. (Note: this method isn't suitable for all mouthguards. Check the manufacturer's instructions).
Remember: Always refer to your mouthguard's manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your mouthguard clean, fresh, and ready to protect your teeth for every battle, from the soccer field to the boxing ring.