Temporary Anchorage Devices

What are they?

Temporary anchorage devices, or TADs, are extra small titanium mini-screws that are placed in the bone to help affect desired tooth movement. TADs are used to augment anchorage when the desired tooth movement is in need of a “power boost.” They are used in certain orthodontic cases to help achieve quicker tooth movement with more efficiency and comfort. The TADs are hooked to braces on the teeth to aid in space closure, midline correction, bite closure, and many other functions.

How are TADs placed?

The actual placement often does not require anything more than anesthetic gel on the gums! Once the area is numb, one of the doctors at Wenger Orthodontics will gently place the TAD through the gum tissue between the roots of the teeth or into the palate. The placing of a TAD is quick and easy. The patient may feel slight pressure while the TAD is placed, but within a day, the patient will no longer be able to feel it. The TAD is removed once treatment is complete, or when it is no longer needed to help straighten the teeth. Removal of a TAD is a quite comfortable procedure and only takes a few minutes.

How can I keep my TADs clean?

A TAD is cleaned by brushing teeth after every meal. The Oral B toothbrush that we provide to all of our patients is excellent for cleaning around the TAD. When a TAD is placed, we will also provide an anti-microbial mouthwash to be used twice a day for the first week. Special care should be taken to clean around the TADs since the soft tissues surrounding the TADs are at greater risk for inflammation if not properly cleaned.