What are TADs (Temporary Anchorage Devices)?
Temporary anchorage devices, or TADs, are small titanium or stainless steel anchors used in certain orthodontic cases to enable tooth movements that would not otherwise be possible, or to enable tooth movements that would otherwise require extractions, surgery or headgear.
How are TADs Placed?
A small amount of strong topical or local anesthetic is used to numb the gum tissue in the area where the TAD will be placed. Once the area is numb, Dr. Carroll or Dr. Sutton will gently place the TAD through the gum tissue and firmly into the jawbone. The placing of a TAD only takes a few seconds and is over before you know it. While the TAD is being placed, you may feel slight pressure, but no pain. Within a day, you will no longer be able to feel the TAD. Once the TAD is no longer needed, it will be removed. Removal of a TAD is a comfortable procedure that takes just a few seconds and does not usually require any anesthetic.
Types of conditions corrected with TADs:
- Anterior open bite
- Space closure for missing teeth
- Cants (teeth on one side are lower than the other)
- Supraerupted teeth (over-erupted teeth)
- Severe deep overbites
- Severe protrusion of upper front teeth
- Gummy smiles
- Dental midline asymmetry
- Constricted upper jaw in conjunction with MARPE in older teens and young adults
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