Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADS)
Temporary Anchorage Devices, also known as TADs, are used in some orthodontic cases to help shift the teeth into a straighter position when braces can’t do it on their own, resulting in much more efficient treatment. Combined with braces, the titanium mini-screws (sometimes called mini-implants, and micro-implants) provide a fixed object that can be used to push, pull, lift, or intrude teeth that are being straightened. Since TADs don’t move, Dr. Hardy can use them to move teeth in directions and amounts that previously were not possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About TADs
How are TADs inserted?
First, Dr. T. C. Hardy at Belmar Orthodontics will evaluate your teeth and determine if TADs are necessary for your orthodontic treatment. Then your gum tissue and jaw area will be carefully numbed before placing the TADs into your jawbone. With your gum tissue and jaw area numbed, the insertion procedure will be completely painless. Getting accustomed to the device typically takes our patients a day or two. Dr. Hardy will remove the TADs once your orthodontic treatment goals are complete, or when he feels they are no longer needed for straightening your teeth
Can I make TADs more comfortable?
If you experience discomfort after having your TADs installed, you can take over-the-counter pain relief medication to alleviate your symptoms. If this discomfort stretches over a couple of days after your procedure, please contact our office and speak to a member of our experienced orthodontic team for further recommendations, or make a follow-up appointment with Dr. Hardy.
Is it difficult to clean my TADs?
TADs don’t require that you change your oral hygiene habits or frequency–continue to brush your teeth three times a day, brush and use mouthwash with antimicrobial ingredients at least twice daily. If you don’t have these proper oral hygiene habits in place yet, now is the time to start. As long as your gums are kept healthy, there are very few complications with these devices.
Contact Belmar Orthodontics for a Consultation
To learn more about TADs, or to schedule an appointment, please call us today at 303.225.9016. Our friendly staff will be happy to answer all of your questions.
$250 TO START
$125 / MONTH
36 MONTHS
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