Like your car, your pet or significant other, mouthguards need some TLC too. Your mouthguard will last you a lot longer if you take proper care of it. Here is a list of DO's and DON'T's that will ensure your guard's peak performance.

Do Clean

A mouth guard is the ultimate habitat for microorganisms to live in. The dark and moist environment is where mold and bacteria thrive and have New Year parties. According to Web MD news, mouth guards can can be the breeding ground to life-threatening bacteria, yeast and mold. Germs found in mouthguards can lead to strep and staph infections, which could leave the entire team on the bench. Here are some good mouthguard cleaning tips to help you keep your mouth healthy.

If you are one of millions of people who wear a nightguard, chances are, you have friends. We're not talking about the kind you hang out with after work for a glass of wine or a quick movie. We're talking about the ones that establish residence onto your mouthguard and make you sick: AKA bacteria. Even your SOVA night guard, which minimizes the growth of bacteria in your mouth still needs a good bath. Remember to clean your SOVA with soap and water, toothpaste or other non-alcohol based cleaners, such as Fresh Guard.

Don't Trim

It is important not to trim your mouthguard. With SOVA, every part of the guard is an important player when it comes to getting the most protection out of your mouthguard: the perforations, the crumple zones, the boomerang shape. Not only will trimming the guard void any available dental warranty, but your teeth will be at a lot more risk for dental damage.

Do Replace

Nothing lasts forever. Over time and with a lot of usage, the material in your mouthguard will start to wear down. We recommend that you replace your mouthguard after every 3-5 months depending on how heavy a night grinder you are.

Don't Chew

SOVA is a custom fit mouthguard that should stay snug and secure around your teeth. If you are able to chew on a SOVA night guard, chances are you've fitted it wrong. With this in mind the general rule of thumb is that if it's not secure in your mouth, it's not protecting you.

Do Store

Your mouthguard will stay a lot cleaner if it is allowed to air dry and stored in an antimicrobial case.

When it comes to cleaning and care, a little common sense goes a long way. And given the love it deserves, your car, your puppy, the love of your life AND your ticket to a good night sleep will last as long as it(they) possibly can.