ProviderStrong Support for Efficient Tooth Movement
TADs, or temporary anchorage devices, are one of the most recent innovations in orthodontic treatment, reducing the need for elastics, headgear, and, in some cases, surgery.
Usually, orthodontists use the back teeth as anchors to move other teeth. But sometimes that isn’t possible. There may not be a stable tooth in the right spot, or the pressure could cause the anchor tooth to shift. That’s where TADs come in.
TADs can eliminate the need to use teeth as anchors or stabilize a tooth that's being used as such. These incredible orthodontic devices can also provide a strong and stable base for applying a significant amount of pushing or pulling force that would once have been achieved only through the use of orthodontic headgear.
The use of TADs as part of your orthodontic treatment at Wentz Orthodontics may eliminate the need to wear headgear or elastics with your braces. They could even make the need for oral surgery unnecessary and shorten your treatment time!
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What are TADs?
A temporary anchorage device is a small titanium alloy screw-in implant that can be temporarily placed into the jawbone to provide a stable anchorage point to move teeth around.
As the name suggests, TADs are temporary and are removed once orthodontic treatment is complete.
How are TADs placed?
Your orthodontist or dental surgeon will use a local anesthetic to thoroughly numb the area where the TAD will be placed. Then, a special hand-powered tool will be used to screw the small titanium implants into the jawbone.
The process of placing TADs takes just a few minutes and causes minimal to no discomfort.
TAD FAQs
To learn more about TADs, read through the answers to these frequently asked questions from our patients.
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Does getting TADs hurt?
Your orthodontist or dental surgeon will gently numb the area with a local anesthetic before placing your TADs, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
As the anesthetic wears off, you might notice some mild pressure or tightness for a few hours, but there shouldn’t be any sharp pain or lasting discomfort.
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Does having TADs removed hurt?
Removing TADs is considered to be a quick and pain-free process.
Your orthodontist or dental surgeon will numb the area around your TADs with a local anesthetic, then simply unscrew the small implant from your jaw. The process takes just seconds and causes little to no discomfort.
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How do I know if my TAD is infected?
Infections related to TADs are uncommon, but it’s important to recognize the warning signs. These may include increased pain or tenderness, swelling, a bad taste in the mouth, or fever.
If you notice any of these symptoms near your TADs, contact your orthodontist or dental professional right away for evaluation and treatment. In some cases, antibiotics may be needed to resolve the infection and protect your oral health.
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How do you eat with TADs?
On the day your TADs are being placed, only eat soft foods and avoid hot foods and beverages.
Follow your oral surgeon or orthodontist's instructions for returning to your normal diet. In most cases, you will be able to return to your regular diet within a day or two, but avoid chewing in the area of your new TADs until you have the OK from your dental professional.
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How should I clean my TADs?
TADs can be kept clean by maintaining a thorough and diligent oral hygiene routine, including brushing after every meal and flossing regularly. Be gentle when cleaning around the area of your new TADs, and always follow instructions provided by your orthodontist.
In some cases, a mouth rinse may be recommended to help fight harmful bacteria.