ProviderProviding Strength & Stability for Efficient Tooth Movement
Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) are one of the most recent innovations in orthodontic treatment, reducing the need for elastics, headgear, and, in some cases, surgery.
Sometimes a tooth needs to be moved in a specific direction, but there’s no suitable tooth to act as an anchor. That’s where TADs come in. These small, discreet devices provide a stable anchor, allowing orthodontists to apply forces that once required headgear.
By using TADs, you may avoid headgear, elastics, or even certain oral surgeries, while potentially shortening your treatment time.
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Investing in a straighter, healthier smile has never been easier. At Nalchajian Orthodontics, we help patients and their families manage the cost of orthodontic treatment with flexible in-house payment plans and convenient financing with CareCredit.
What are TADs?
TADs are titanium screws that are inserted directly into the gums and jaw bone, and then they are connected to a tooth that needs significant force to move.
As the name suggests, TADs are not permanent like dental implants. TADs are left in place only for the duration of treatment and then removed.
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 entire process will only take 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 at Nalchajian Orthodontics.
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Does getting TADs hurt?
Your orthodontist or dental surgeon will use a local anesthetic to thoroughly numb the areas where your TADs are being placed. This will prevent you from feeling any pain or discomfort.
Once the anesthetic begins to wear off, you may feel some discomfort for a few hours that could be described as tightness or pressure. There should be no sharp pain or lingering discomfort associated with TAD placement.
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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 is minimally invasive and only takes a few seconds.
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How do I know if my TAD is infected?
Infections are rare, but symptoms may include heightened discomfort or pain, swelling, bad taste in the mouth, and fever. If you are showing any signs of an infection around the area of your TADs, contact your orthodontist or dental professional immediately for care. Antibiotics may be required.
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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.