4 Quick Tips for Keeping Thumb Guards Clean

Your child’s thumb guard is supposed to benefit their dental health, not harbor germs. Sticky saliva, dirt, and bacteria can accumulate quickly, making the guard uncomfortable and less effective. Not to mention, your child could get sick if the guard isn’t cleaned regularly, since young children often put it straight back in their mouths, spreading germs.

Proper maintenance not only protects your child’s health but also extends the guard’s service life. Use our expert quick tips for keeping thumb guards clean and effective.

Wash Daily With Mild Soap

When cleaning the device, use lukewarm water and a mild, non-irritating soap. When cleaning the device, avoid hot water, as high temperatures can warp its soft, flexible plastic. Additionally, apply a small amount of soap and gently scrub all surfaces of the guard with your fingers or a soft cloth.

Cleaning Tip

Never use harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive scrubbing pads, as these can degrade the material and potentially harm your child’s delicate skin.

Rinse Thoroughly

After washing, rinse the guard thoroughly to ensure no soap residue remains. Leftover soap can cause skin irritation or leave an unpleasant taste, discouraging your child from wearing the device.

You can verify that you’ve thoroughly rinsed the guard by holding it under running water until the water runs clear and no bubbles remain. Pay close attention to the ventilation holes and the inner crevices where soap loves to hide. If necessary, use a soft-bristled toothbrush that you designated solely for this purpose to reach tight spots.

Air Dry Completely

Moisture breeds bacteria and mold, so drying the thumb guard fully is as important as washing it. This means you should never store a wet guard in a closed container.

Once you have washed and rinsed the guard, place it on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area to air-dry. Avoid using a hairdryer or placing the guard on a heater, as direct heat can deform the plastic, rendering the device uncomfortable or ineffective.

Parent Tip

If possible, rotate between two guards so one always has ample time to dry completely before the subsequent use.

Check for Wear and Tear

Another quick tip for keeping thumb guards clean is to regularly inspect the device for damage. While cleaning, take a moment to look for any signs of damage, such as:

• Cracks
• Tears
• Rough edges
• Residue build-up

Such damage could harm your child by creating sharp edges, trapping bacteria, or making the guard uncomfortable to wear. If you notice significant wear, replace the guard promptly to maintain effectiveness and safety.

End Thumb Sucking for Good

Knowing how to break finger sucking starts with choosing the right tool, like AeroFinger. This device slides over a child’s hand without affecting daily movement; it also has slits on the side to reduce the suction from thumb sucking. By addressing this essential item, you help keep your child healthy as they work to stop sucking their fingers.