Temporary anchoring devices (TADs) may look like mini-“earring” studs set in your gums, but they have an important job to do: They allow an orthodontist to put tremendous pressure on teeth that need to move into better alignment. As part of your orthodontic treatment at Bernuy Orthodontic Specialist in Austin and Georgetown, Texas, board-certified orthodontist Neker Bernuy, DDS, may recommend TADs. If you have an abnormal bite, twisted teeth, or jaw asymmetry, find out how TADs may help you by contacting the Bernuy Orthodontic
Temporary Anchoring Device (TAD) Q & A
What is a temporary anchoring device (TAD)?
A temporary anchoring device (TAD) is a titanium stud that your orthodontist places through your gums and into your bone to provide an anchoring point for teeth that need to move into better alignment. The TAD only stays in your mouth as long as it takes to correct your bite and alignment. Then your orthodontist removes it.
Why do I need a TAD?
In the early days of orthodontics, the only way to move misaligned teeth into a new position was to use other teeth and oral appliances to exert tremendous pressure on the misaligned teeth. However, sometimes that pressure was so great that the straight teeth would move, too. Orthodontists then used headgear to create pressure from the outside without affecting the normal teeth. Headgear, though, can be
cumbersome and uncomfortable. A TAD, in contrast, provides an anchorage point inside your mouth but only affects the teeth that need to move. A TAD is more discreet and comfortable than headgear, too.
What happens when I get a TAD?
Placing a TAD is a similar procedure to placing a dental implant. Dr. Bernuy must first determine if you have enough strong jaw bone to place the implant.
What does a TAD look like?
A TAD is a small titanium screw-like stud. It almost looks like you’re wearing a miniature earring in your gums when you have a TAD. Your orthodontist may attach wires or rubber bands to the TAD, which are then also connected to the brackets on the teeth you’re moving.
How long does a TAD stay in place?
As the name implies, your TAD is temporary. Once the TAD has accomplished its mission, Dr. Bernuy removes it. After your orthodontic treatment is complete, you wear a night-time retainer to maintain your results, but you don’t need another TAD. Get the smile you deserve with orthodontics and TADs that realign your teeth discreetly and effectively. Contact Bernuy Orthodontic Specialist today by phone or online for a TAD consultation.