The effect of decontamination procedures on elastic polymeric materials used in dental mouthguards fabrication.

Purpose: Mouthguards are commonly used in the prevention of head and mouth injuries in many sport disciplines. Elastic polymeric materials used in their fabrication absorb the energy of impact. However, decontamination procedures may cause damage to their surface causing deterioration of their properties and favouring pathogen colonization. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of different cleaning methods on mouthguard materials, surface quality.

Methods: The material for the research consisted of 81 samples made from polymeric materials used for custom mouthguard fabrication - Impak, Corflex Orthodontic and Erkoflex. Samples were viewed under a scanning electron microscope after exposure to different cleaning methods.

Results: Statistical analysis of tested decontamination procedures and disinfecting agents showed statistically important ( p < 0.05) results for the presence of small and big separated pieces, grooves and holes. Out of all the cases the lowest indicator for occurrence was in the disinfecting spray - Aftermat.

Conclusions: Considering the importance of the surface material of the mouthguard, disinfection should be the method of choice for maintaining its hygiene. Impak material samples, cleaned with the Aftermat spray, showed the lowest range of damage.