What Are Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADS) Or Mini-Implants?

By Shadi Saba, DDS

Temporary anchorage devices, (TAD) are mini-implant anchors that are inserted into different areas in the mouth to be used as fixed points from which teeth can move. They are typically made of a bio-compatible pure titanium alloy.

Before TAD's, orthodontists used headgear, facemasks, or a transpalatal arch as a fixed point to move other teeth against these fixed points (anchorage units). Orthodontic anchorage with mini-implants has been frequently used because it prevents unwanted tooth movements and reduces the dependence on patient cooperation, increasing the predictability in attaining the treatments goals.

Mini-implants have been used to correct various problems open bites, deep bites, overbites, under-bites and uprighting of severely tipped teeth. Most mini-implants are placed at an angle in between roots of adjacent teeth.

The procedure is more comfortable for the patient than getting a tooth removed. The patient normally requires a topical anesthetic on the gum area where the implant will be placed. Some patients may require injection of a local anesthetic in addition to the topical one.

The procedure takes approximately 20 minutes from start to finish. On average, the implant is given two weeks to heal before it can be used for orthodontic anchorage. Depending on their use, the mini-screws are left in the mouth for six months or longer. Removal of the mini-screws can be accomplished quite quickly and does not require anything more than topical anesthetic.

Contact your dental professional to learn more about min-implants and find out if using TADs can eliminate the need for jaw surgery,extraction of teeth, or extra-oral appliances, such as headgear or facemasks.