3D technology has changed everything in dentistry, including how we protect our teeth at night. At Mint Dental Care in Sunnyvale, CA, we’ve moved beyond goopy impressions and long wait times of the past.
Our 3D-printed custom nightguards are the most precise, comfortable, and durable solution for bruxism (teeth grinding) available in 2026. Here are the answers to the most common questions our Sunnyvale patients ask about this advanced technology.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About 3D Custom Nightguards
1. What exactly is a 3D-printed custom nightguard?
Unlike store-bought night guards or traditional lab-made versions, a 3D-printed nightguard is created from a digital map of your mouth. We use an intraoral scanner to capture every contour of your teeth and bite. This data is used to design and print a night guard using medical-grade, biocompatible resin.
2. How is 3D printing better than the traditional method?
Traditional nightguards require messy impressions and often take 2-3 weeks to arrive from an outside lab.
- Precision: 3D printing is accurately designed for you, meaning fewer adjustments and a more comfortable fit.
- Speed: Because we handle the digital workflow in-house at Mint Dental Care, your turnaround time is significantly faster.
- Materials: Biocompatible resins today are stronger and thinner than old-fashioned acrylic, making them much easier to sleep with.
3. Will it be bulky or uncomfortable?
This is the #1 concern for our patients! Because 3D printing allows for variable thickness, we can make the guard thinner in areas that don't receive grinding pressure and stronger in the areas that do. This results in a sleek, lightweight appliance that doesn't feel like a mouth full of plastic.
4. How long does a 3D custom nightguard last?
While durability depends on the severity of your grinding, our medical-grade, biocompatible resins are designed for long-term use. On average, a custom night guard from Mint Dental Care
lasts 2 to 5 years. If you happen to lose or break it, we keep your digital scan on file, so we may be able to print you a replacement without you needing to come back in for a new scan!
5. Can it help with my jaw pain and headaches?
Yes! Many people don't realize that morning headaches and jaw soreness are often caused by nocturnal clenching. A custom nightguard:
- Redistributes Pressure: It absorbs the force of your bite so your jaw muscles can relax.
- Protects Teeth: It prevents the effect of teeth grinding together, saving you from expensive restorative work later.
Why Choose Mint Dental Care for Your Nightguard in Sunnyvale?
When looking for a dentist in Sunnyvale, CA, you want a team that embraces the latest technology to improve your comfort. At Mint Dental Care, we specialize in the digital workflow:
- No Messy Putty: We use a digital intraoral scanner for a gag-free experience.
- AI-Assisted Design: We use AI to assist in analyzing your bite pattern, ensuring the nightguard is balanced perfectly to protect your TMJ (jaw joint).
- Local Convenience: Conveniently located for anyone in Sunnyvale or the surrounding Silicon Valley area.
Stop Grinding, Start Sleeping
If you’re waking up with jaw pain or notice you clench or grind your teeth, it’s time for professional protection.
