TADs (Temporary Anchorage Devices)
Precision Orthodontic Treatment with Micro Implants
Temporary Anchorage Devices, commonly called TADs or mini-implants, have revolutionized orthodontic treatment. At Bar Orthodontics in Rockwall, TX, Dr. Bar uses TADs to achieve tooth movements that were once difficult or impossible without surgery.
What Are TADs?
TADs are small titanium screws, typically 6-12mm long and 1.2-2mm in diameter, that are temporarily placed in the jawbone to serve as fixed anchor points during orthodontic treatment.
Unlike traditional braces that rely on teeth as anchors (which can move reciprocally), TADs provide absolute anchoragethat doesn't move, allowing us to move specific teeth exactly where we want them.
How TADs Improve Treatment
Traditional orthodontics follows Newton's Third Law—when force is applied to move teeth, an equal and opposite force affects the anchor teeth. TADs eliminate this problem by providing stationary anchorage, enabling:
Intrusion of over-erupted teethIntrusion of over-erupted teeth
Retraction of front teeth without unwanted movement of back teethRetraction of front teeth without unwanted movement of back teeth
Uprighting of tilted molarsUprighting of tilted molars
Correction of asymmetric bite issuesCorrection of asymmetric bite issues
Movement of teeth in directions previously requiring surgeryMovement of teeth in directions previously requiring surgery
Faster overall treatment timesFaster overall treatment times
The TAD Placement Process
TAD placement is a quick, minimally invasive procedure:
Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area (often just topical gel is sufficient)Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area (often just topical gel is sufficient)
Dr. Bar precisely places the TAD through the gum tissue into the boneDr. Bar precisely places the TAD through the gum tissue into the bone
The entire procedure takes only a few minutesThe entire procedure takes only a few minutes
Most patients report little to no discomfortMost patients report little to no discomfort
You can return to normal activities immediatelyYou can return to normal activities immediately
TADs are removed just as easily once treatment is complete, and the small site heals within days.
Common Uses for TADs
Dr. Bar may recommend TADs for:
Closing extraction spaces without shifting other teethClosing extraction spaces without shifting other teeth
Correcting open bites by intruding back teethCorrecting open bites by intruding back teeth
Fixing gummy smiles by intruding front teethFixing gummy smiles by intruding front teeth
Uprighting molars that have tipped into extraction sitesUprighting molars that have tipped into extraction sites
Treating complex bite issues that would otherwise require jaw surgeryTreating complex bite issues that would otherwise require jaw surgery
Accelerating treatment for adults with limited bone supportAccelerating treatment for adults with limited bone support
Creating space for implants or other restorative workCreating space for implants or other restorative work
Caring for Your TADs
TADs require minimal maintenance:
Brush gently around the TAD site twice dailyBrush gently around the TAD site twice daily
Use an antimicrobial rinse as directedUse an antimicrobial rinse as directed
Avoid sticky or hard foods that could dislodge the TADAvoid sticky or hard foods that could dislodge the TAD
Attend regular orthodontic appointments for monitoringAttend regular orthodontic appointments for monitoring
Report any unusual looseness or discomfort to our officeReport any unusual looseness or discomfort to our office
Benefits of TAD-Assisted Orthodontics
Patients who receive TAD-assisted treatment often experience:
More predictable tooth movement and outcomesMore predictable tooth movement and outcomes
Shorter overall treatment timeShorter overall treatment time
Ability to avoid jaw surgery in some casesAbility to avoid jaw surgery in some cases
Better results for complex casesBetter results for complex cases
Reduced need for patient compliance with headgear or elasticsReduced need for patient compliance with headgear or elastics
More comfortable treatment experienceMore comfortable treatment experience
Schedule Your Consultation
Schedule your complimentary consultation at Bar Orthodontics to learn whether TADs could enhance your orthodontic treatment and help you achieve your best smile faster.
