Interesting to hear about your experience with vanilla—I haven't come across that one yet. Mint seems to be the default recommendation, probably because it's familiar and masks any residual plastic taste pretty effectively. But vanilla does sound intriguing, especially if it's subtle enough not to feel like you're sleeping with dessert in your mouth.
On the topic of flavorless mouthguards, I've noticed patients often mention that lingering plastic taste you described. Makes me wonder if it's related to the material itself or maybe the manufacturing process. Have you tried soaking it in anything specific to neutralize the taste? I've heard some people use diluted mouthwash or even baking soda solutions, but I'm curious if anyone's found something particularly effective.
And as for cats and mouthguard cases... your story made me chuckle. I've had patients come in needing replacements because their pets decided the mouthguard was a chew toy. Maybe there's something about the texture or scent that attracts them? Wouldn't surprise me if manufacturers eventually start marketing pet-proof cases—seems like there's a real demand there.
I've also wondered about the plastic taste—my dentist mentioned it might be from the curing process. I tried soaking mine overnight in diluted baking soda once, and it did help a bit... but didn't completely eliminate it. Also, my dog seems equally fascinated by mouthguards, unfortunately.
Interesting point about the baking soda soak, but I'm not entirely convinced the plastic taste is solely from the curing process. I've read somewhere that certain brands or materials inherently have a stronger chemical flavor, regardless of curing. Maybe checking into alternative materials or brands could help? Also, sympathies about the dog situation—mine once mistook mine for a chew toy... expensive mistake.
"certain brands or materials inherently have a stronger chemical flavor, regardless of curing."
Yeah, I've noticed that too. But honestly, sometimes the pricier brands aren't always better taste-wise. I switched to a cheaper brand recently—surprisingly less plasticky. Might be worth experimenting a bit... Sorry about your dog though, that's rough!
Totally relate to the chemical taste thing... When I got my first mouthguard, I was super anxious about it because the taste was so strong. Tried soaking it in mouthwash, baking soda, even vinegar (bad idea, btw—made it way worse!). Eventually, I found that just leaving it out during the day helped air it out over time. Didn't completely eliminate the flavor, but made it more bearable. Hope yours improves soon... and fingers crossed your pup doesn't snack on the next one.
