Temporary Anchorage Devices

What Are TADS?

TADS are small, titanium screws that are used as anchor points and are temporarily placed in the bone above or below the teeth to provide additional anchorage points for orthodontic appliances. They are strategically positioned in the patient’s jawbone. They serve as a fixed point of resistance for orthodontic appliances, allowing for more precise control over the movement of teeth and improving treatment efficiency. TADS function in conjunction with braces, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances to create the desired tooth and jawbone changes.

How Do I Know If I Need TADS?

TADS are not necessary in all treatment cases, but they are common. Typically they are used when there is not another tooth in the right position to be used as an anchor. If there will be too much pressure from pulling or pushing on the anchor tooth, TADS may be used to lower the risk of moving the anchor tooth during the treatment process. We want you to get your braces (or other appliances) off as soon as you can, so we don’t want to risk moving the wrong teeth and keeping you in your appliances for longer!

Are TADS Invasive?

When you need TADS, there is a simple, non-invasive process the orthodontists go through in order to place them. They are quick, virtually painless, and non-invasive. Here’s what that process looks like:

  1. Assessment: Before placement, our orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination to identify the optimal location for the TADS. This exam includes X-Rays and a visual inspection of the mouth. The exam will help the orthodontist decide where to place the TADS, if they are necessary.
  2. Local Anesthesia: Local anesthesia, usually a gel, is applied to the area to ensure that the patient feels no discomfort during the procedure.
  3. Insertion: The TADS are precisely inserted into the predetermined locations within the jawbone.During this step, you will feel some pressure, but not pain, as the orthodontist is placing the TADS. This typically only takes a few minutes.

Why Are TADS Beneficial?

Some of the benefits of using TADS include precise tooth movement, shorter treatment duration, reduced extraction need, complex treatment options, and minimized discomfort during treatment.

At Rollins & Petersen Orthodontics, we are proud to utilize TADS in our orthodontic practice to ensure our patients receive the best,quickest care and achieve the smiles they’ve always dreamed of. If you are considering orthodontic treatment or have questions about TADS, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation. Our dedicated team is here to provide you with the most advanced and effective orthodontic solutions.