Do you wake up with a sore jaw, headaches, or worn-down teeth? You might be grinding or clenching your teeth while sleeping, a condition dental professionals call bruxism. Nightguards provide an effective solution to protect your teeth from this damaging habit. At Dental Group of Chicago, we offer custom nightguards in Chicago that provide superior protection and comfort compared to over-the-counter alternatives.
We specialize in creating dentist-made nightguards that fit perfectly and provide maximum protection. Dr. Alexander Reznikov and his team of experienced dentists understand the importance of protecting your smile even while you sleep, offering comprehensive solutions for teeth grinding and clenching issues many Chicagoans face.
Understanding Teeth Grinding and Why You Need Protection
Teeth grinding (bruxism) affects millions of Americans, with many being unaware they have this condition until damage has occurred. This unconscious habit typically happens during sleep, causing excessive pressure on your teeth and jaw muscles. The grinding motion can wear down enamel, crack teeth, damage dental work, and contribute to TMJ disorders over time.
Stress, sleep disorders, misaligned teeth, and certain medications can trigger bruxism. Without proper protection, the constant grinding can lead to serious dental problems requiring extensive treatment. A custom nightguard creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth, preventing direct contact and absorbing the force from grinding and clenching.
Signs You Might Need a Nightguard
You might benefit from a nightguard if you experience morning headaches, facial pain, sensitive teeth, or worn tooth surfaces. Your sleep partner might notice grinding sounds during the night, which is another telltale sign. Chicago Loop residents with high-stress jobs often experience teeth clenching without realizing it until their regular dental checkup reveals evidence of wear patterns.
Even without obvious symptoms, preventative protection with a nightguard can save your teeth from permanent damage. During your examination at Dental Group of Chicago, our dentists will check for signs of bruxism and recommend appropriate treatment if needed.
Custom Nightguards vs. Over-the-Counter Options
While drugstores offer over-the-counter nightguards, these generic options cannot match the protection and comfort of custom nightguards from Chicago dental professionals. Stock mouthguards often fit poorly, feel bulky, and may even increase discomfort or create new issues with your bite alignment.
Custom-fitted nightguards from Dental Group of Chicago are made from professional-grade materials designed to last longer and provide better protection. Our nightguards are crafted using precise dental impressions of your teeth, ensuring a comfortable fit that stays securely in place throughout the night.
The Process of Getting a Custom Nightguard
When you visit our South Loop office for a nightguard, we start with a comprehensive examination to assess your specific needs. Our dentists take detailed impressions of your teeth to create a perfectly fitted appliance. Many patients appreciate our same-day nightguard fitting options for urgent cases, though standard custom nightguards typically require two appointments.
The impression process is quick and comfortable, taking only minutes. Once your custom nightguard is ready, we’ll ensure it fits perfectly and provide instructions for proper use and care. Regular follow-up appointments allow us to check your nightguard’s condition and make any necessary adjustments for continued comfort and protection.
Types of Professional Nightguards Available
Different grinding patterns require different types of nightguards. At Dental Group of Chicago, we offer several options, including hard acrylic nightguards for severe grinders, soft, flexible guards for moderate cases, and hybrid designs that combine durability with comfort.
Clear plastic nightguards provide a discreet appearance while still offering excellent protection. We design specialized TMJ nightguards for patients with TMJ disorders that help position the jaw properly during sleep, reducing joint strain and associated pain. Our team will recommend the most appropriate type based on your specific needs and grinding patterns.
Long-Term Benefits of Nightguard Therapy
Beyond protecting your teeth, professional nightguards from Chicago dental specialists can relieve TMJ symptoms and reduce morning headaches. By creating proper spacing between teeth and absorbing grinding forces, nightguards help muscles relax and reduce overall strain on your jaw joint.
Regular use of your custom nightguard can prevent costly dental procedures that might otherwise be necessary to repair damaged teeth. Many patients report improved sleep quality after beginning nightguard therapy, as reduced muscle tension allows for more restful sleep.
Maintaining Your Nightguard for Optimal Protection
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure your custom nightguard continues offering maximum protection. Daily cleaning with a soft toothbrush and mild soap helps prevent bacteria buildup. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material and affect the fit of your nightguard.
Store your nightguard in the protective case provided by our office when not in use, and bring it to your regular dental checkups so we can examine it for wear and determine if replacement is necessary. With proper care, a quality nightguard from Dental Group of Chicago can last several years while continuing to protect your smile.
Experience Professional Nightguard Therapy at Dental Group of Chicago
Don’t let teeth grinding compromise your dental health and overall well-being. At Dental Group of Chicago, our team provides expert care in a comfortable environment, with extended hours Monday through Saturday to accommodate your busy schedule. Dr. Reznikov and our experienced dentists use the latest technology to create durable, comfortable nightguards that effectively protect your teeth while you sleep.
Contact us today at our South Loop location to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward protecting your smile. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of bruxism or want to prevent potential damage, our team at Dental Group of Chicago is ready to provide the professional care you deserve. Call (312) 588-0043 or fill out our contact form to schedule your appointment and discover why so many Chicago residents trust us with their dental health.
