The act of sanitizing an oral appliance designed to protect teeth from grinding or clenching during sleep involves removing accumulated bacteria, plaque, and debris. This routine maintenance helps maintain the device’s integrity and promotes oral health. Neglecting this process can lead to unpleasant odors, discoloration, and potentially contribute to infections.
Consistent hygiene of this dental appliance offers several advantages. It extends the lifespan of the device, ensuring it continues to provide effective protection. More importantly, it minimizes the risk of introducing harmful microorganisms into the mouth, which can lead to gingivitis or other oral health issues. The practice of oral appliance cleaning has evolved alongside advancements in dental materials and understanding of oral hygiene, with modern methods focusing on both effectiveness and safety.