TADs | FAQ | Testimonials
Temporary Orthodontic Anchorage Devices (TADs)
The advent of TADs to the orthodontic world opens up an entirely new era of biomechanics (the process of moving teeth), thus allowing orthodontists at the forefront of this technology to expand the horizon of treatment options for all patients.
|
In orthodontic tooth movement, resistance to undesirable tooth movement is termed anchorage. Anchorage can be increased by including more teeth together as a unit, adding an extraoral force such as a headgear or facemask, and by adding an intraoral force such as elastics. However, despite the orthodontist’s best effort to prevent undesirable tooth movement, anchorage loss is unavoidable using only traditional orthodontic methods.
|
Here a TAD (illustrated in gold) is used to close space efficiently and predictably without dependence on headgear or elastics
|
An alternative solution is to utilize a temporary miniaturized (1.2-2 mm wide) titanium alloy screw-type dental implant (a.k.a. temporary anchorage device (TAD), mini-screw implant (MSI) or mini-implant) placed in the upper or lower jaw (bone) for use as an anchor in the mouth to prevent unwanted tooth movement. TADs allow selective tooth movement without reciprocal tooth movement (without taxing orthodontic anchorage). The technique utilizes a minimally invasive, pain-free surgical approach for implant placement and removal, which is unlike the trauma and post-operative discomfort commonly associated with traditional dental implants.
Here TADs are used to facilitate the replacement of the missing 1st molar with the 2nd molar, thereby avoiding the discomfort and extra time and expense necessary to place a traditional dental implant and crown
Here´s a partial list of indications for the use of TADs:
- Traditional malocclusions in need of additional anchorage, such as in space closure (retraction of incisors or protraction of posterior (back) teeth).
- Pre-prosthetic tooth movement.
- Molar uprighting.
- Intrusion of super-erupted teeth.
- Distalization of Class II or Class III end-on malocclusions to ideal Class I occlusions.
- Correction of occlusal cants (canted smile).
- To reduce orthodontic treatment time and cost and to improve patient comfort and satisfaction.
- To avoid the need for surgery, and the associated surgical risks, discomfort, down-time & cost.
- To eliminate the need for headgear, lip bumpers and other cumbersome appliances.
- To close space and avoid the need for dental implants or bridges (when feasible).
|
TAD used to reduce this severe underbite non-surgically |
TADS should not be placed in patients with the following:
- Absolute Contraindications:
History of bisphosphonate therapy, hypersensitivity, titanium allergies, metabolic bone disorders, bone pathologies, poor bone healing, cardiovascular disease, psychosomatic disease, uncontrolled periodontitis, undergoing radiation therapy, decreased bone quality/quantity or localized active infection.
- Relative Contraindications:
Use of drugs, tobacco or alcohol, oral mucosal pathologies, poor oral hygiene, poor patient compliance, physical handicaps that prevent adequate oral hygiene and/or maintenance, insufficient interradicular or intraradicular space or para-functional habits.
Back to Top
FAQ
What is a TAD?
A TAD is a miniature, sterile titanium-alloy screw that is positioned in the mouth to serve as an anchor for moving specific teeth in the most controlled and predictable way possible. TADs eliminate cumbersome appliances, such as headgear and transpalatal arches, and allow certain cases to be treated that were nearly impossible before this technique was refined. TADs are revolutionizing orthodontic treatment by facilitating the treatment of challenging cases better and faster than ever before.
Here a TAD (temporary anchorage device) is being used to simplify the process of saving this tooth.
Having a TAD placed sounds painful. Should I be worried?
Absolutely not! While it's normal to assume that the procedure would be uncomfortable, it is actually pain-free. After numbing the area where the TAD is to be placed, the patient feels only gentle pressure as the TAD is inserted, but no discomfort. The entire procedure takes less than a minute.
Do I need a shot?
No. There's an effective way of numbing the gums that is 100% pain-and needle-free. First, we apply a fast-acting numbing gel where the TAD will be inserted. After the gel desensitizes the area topically, we power-spray the gums with a small amount of local anesthetic that completely numbs it. The entire procedure is totally pain-free.
Here a TAD is used to facilitate the movement of an impacted tooth
Will it hurt after the anesthetic wears off?
No. Some patients say they feel a little pressure for a short period afterward. Only a few patients have reported needing to use an over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
What if it aches the next day?
There is no cause for alarm. Minor aching associated with new tooth movement is not only normal, but expected; however, if you have concerns, simply call our office or the after-hours number. We'll probably suggest that you to take an over-the-counter remedy to lessen the discomfort.
What if the TAD or its attachment causes an irritation inside my cheeks or lips?
For immediate relief, you may be able to cover the attachment with a cotton swab or a small amount of wax. Call the office or the after-hours number we provide and we'll give you instructions and/or make an appointment to see you.
Temporary anchorage device (TAD) used to facilitate a difficult combination of orthodontic tooth movements
What if the TAD comes loose?
On occasion, a TAD might become a little loose. In most cases this minor mobility is nothing to be concerned about; however, if you feel the TAD is excessively loose, or it is causing you discomfort, call the office and we'll make an appointment to see you to determine if the mobility is normal.
How do I keep it clean?
The TAD simply needs to be brushed twice daily with a soft toothbrush that has been dipped in an antimicrobial solution.
How long will the TAD need to stay in place?
The time varies based on the indicated treatment, but, as the name implies, the anchorage device is temporary and is typically removed in a few months when it is no longer needed to assist in tooth movement.
Will it hurt when you remove it?
No. Before we remove it, we'll place some numbing gel (topical anesthetic) around the TAD and then gently back it out. The entire process takes only a few seconds.
TAD used to close this challenging space
I've never heard of TADs before. Are they new?
Not really. Orthodontists have used TADs since 1983 and oral surgeons and orthopedists have used miniature screws like this for decades longer. Recent refinements in the devices and the procedures for their use have propelled the application of TADs to a heightened level in orthodontics. With TADs, orthodontic treatment options have never been greater. We are proud to be at the forefront of this exciting technology and feel confident that your experience with it will be comfortable and the results exemplary.
Back to Top
Testimonials
Back to Top