Protect Your Teeth While You Sleep
Custom nightguards at Big City Dental help protect teeth from grinding, clenching, enamel wear, and jaw stress with a comfortable appliance designed specifically for your smile in Chicago.
Custom Nightguards
Custom nightguards are designed for patients who grind or clench their teeth during sleep. This condition, often called bruxism, can place heavy pressure on the teeth, jaw joints, and facial muscles. At Big City Dental, Dr. Nilay Patel can evaluate signs of grinding and create a custom nightguard to help protect your smile from ongoing stress.
Many patients do not realize they grind their teeth because it happens at night. However, the signs can become visible over time. Worn enamel, chipped teeth, morning jaw soreness, headaches, tooth sensitivity, and repeated damage to dental work may all point to nighttime clenching or grinding. A custom nightguard creates a protective layer between the upper and lower teeth, helping reduce direct pressure while you sleep.
What Are Custom Nightguards
Custom nightguards are dental appliances made from a precise scan or impression of your mouth. Unlike store-bought guards, they are designed to fit your teeth and bite comfortably, making them easier to wear consistently.
Why Custom Nightguards Are Worth It
Protects Tooth Enamel
Grinding can gradually wear down enamel. Since enamel does not grow back, a custom nightguard helps protect the teeth from ongoing wear.
Reduces Stress on Dental Work
Crowns, fillings, veneers, bonding, and implant restorations can all be affected by heavy bite forces. A nightguard can help reduce pressure on existing dental work.
Supports Jaw Comfort
Clenching can contribute to jaw tension and morning soreness. A custom nightguard may help reduce strain by creating a more protective resting surface for the teeth.
Comfortable Custom Fit
Because the appliance is made specifically for your mouth, it is typically more comfortable and secure than an over-the-counter option.
Helps Prevent Chips and Cracks
Repeated grinding can weaken teeth and increase the risk of chips, cracks, and fractures. A custom nightguard helps absorb some of that force while you sleep.
The Custom Nightguard Process
Step 1, Bite and Wear Evaluation
Dr. Nilay will examine your teeth, gums, jaw joints, and bite for signs of grinding or clenching. He may also ask about morning headaches, jaw soreness, sensitivity, or sleep habits.
Step 2, Digital Scan or Impression
If a custom nightguard is recommended, the team will take a precise scan or impression of your teeth. This allows the appliance to be made for your specific bite.
Step 3, Appliance Fabrication
Your nightguard is created from durable dental material designed to withstand nighttime pressure. The design is based on your teeth, bite, and level of grinding.
Step 4, Fitting Appointment
Once the nightguard is ready, Dr. Nilay will check the fit and make sure it feels comfortable. Small adjustments can be made if needed.
Step 5, Home Care Guidance
The team will show you how to clean, store, and maintain your custom nightguard. Bringing it to regular dental visits allows the team to check for wear over time.
Common Questions
FAQ's
How do I know if I need a custom nightguard?
You may need a nightguard if you have worn teeth, chips, morning jaw soreness, headaches, tooth sensitivity, or signs of grinding noticed during a dental exam.
Is a custom nightguard better than a store-bought one?
A custom nightguard is made for your exact mouth and bite, which usually makes it more comfortable, secure, and effective than a one-size-fits-all guard.
Will a nightguard stop me from grinding?
A nightguard may not stop the muscle habit completely, but it helps protect your teeth from direct grinding and clenching forces.
How long does a custom nightguard last?
Longevity depends on how heavily you grind, how well you care for the appliance, and the material used. Your dental team can monitor wear during regular visits.
How do I clean my nightguard?
Rinse it after each use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush, let it dry, and store it in its case. Avoid hot water, which can distort the material.
Happy Patients
What Our Patients Say
Our patients come from across Chicago’s Northside neighborhoods. Here’s what they’re saying about their experience at Big City Dental.
4.8 out of 5 on Google160+ reviews
I've been going to this practice for over 30 years, and my long-time dentist finally retired a few months ago. I'm very happy to report that the new dentist who has taken over is a very sociable, knowledgeable, and trustworthy person. I'll be happy to continue going here for another 30 years!
Tom T.Google review · I can’t say enough good things about this dental office. From the moment you walk in, everyone is kind, welcoming, and professional. The dentist truly takes the time to explain everything, answer questions, and make sure you’re comfortable throughout the entire visit. I always feel like I’m in great hands and that they genuinely care about doing excellent work—not rushing or cutting corners. The quality of care is consistently wonderful, and I leave every appointment feeling confident and well taken care of. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a dentist they can truly trust!
Elli B.Google review · Been a patient here for years, and every time I leave, I swear I’m going to floss every day… it lasts about a week, but they never judge me! The hygienists are gentle, esp Abby. Dr. Nilay is awesome, and they somehow make dental cleanings almost enjoyable. Highly recommend this crew!
Megan L.Google review · Big City Dental was clean, efficient, and friendly. I will be requesting Abby every time I go now!
Patrick L.Google review · I would definitely recommend Big City Dental to everyone that I know. My Hygienist Ashley was very efficient and thorough and my teeth especially clean. I was totally impressed. I will definitely recommend Ashley to all my family and friends.
mark D.Google review · Big City Dental is by far the best Dental Office that l have ever been to. The front office staff is very friendly and efficient. Ashley, the hygienist was excellent! The cleaning that I received was very thorough and comprehensive. Ashley took time to answer all my questions and reassured me regarding all my dental concerns. Ashley was the best hygienist that I have ever seen!
Amy D.Google review · I’m always nervous going to the dentist because I don’t always take good care of myself. Serena and Racquel helped me feel welcome, Will be coming back soon for another visit!
amazinggurl4lifeGoogle review · I highly recommend, Racquel & Sarina made me feel welcomed! They explained everything I needed to know with kindness & compassion. They were both so patient and helped easy my anxiety.The office was nice & very clean. I highly recommend this office.
Venus R.Google review · I highly recommend Big City Dental! The office is very clean & lovely. The staff is professional and kind. Racquel & Sarina made my experience pleasant. They set the energy of the office with quality care & compassion. Thank You!
Sophia R.Google review · I had such a wonderful experience with Raquel and Serena. They were incredibly kind, patient, and professional from start to finish. Their calming personalities and friendly attitudes made the entire visit so much more comfortable. They took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I felt at ease throughout the appointment. You can truly tell they care about their patients. Thank you, Raquel and Serena, for providing such exceptional care—your teamwork and positivity make all the difference! 🌟🦷
Jeanine P.Google review · Amazing establishment shout out Raquel for the amazing service
Bridget W.Google review · It feels good to come to a dental establishment that you can trust, Raquel went above and beyond to make my experience great. Thank you 🙏🏻
Kyle W.Google review ·
A selection of recent 4 and 5 star Google reviews. The rating reflects all reviews.
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Big City Dental on Southport Ave is accepting new patients. Whether you’re due for a cleaning or ready to transform your smile, Dr. Nilay and the team are here to make it easy!