Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs)

What are TADs?

TADs (temporary anchorage devices) are small screws that we anchor in your jaw to assist in straightening your teeth with braces. Replacing older orthodontic methods, such as headgear, TADs have revolutionized how we, your premiere oral surgeon and orthodontist, can deliver effective, minimally invasive dental treatments. The advanced technology behind TADS enables us to apply force to your teeth in a broad range of directions previously not possible.

Why TADs?

As we straighten teeth with braces, we use force to slowly shift them into the proper position. To do so, we need an anchor, and traditionally, we used headgear or other teeth that were often not in an ideal location. Now, TADs provide us with the opportunity to exert the necessary force in a wider range of locations, allowing for movement in almost every direction, without causing undue stress on other teeth.

TADs—The Process

We begin by using a topical anesthetic to ensure you feel no discomfort. Once you are sufficiently numb, we place each TAD into your jawbone so that they are ready to be connected to a bracketed tooth or teeth. The process of inserting the highly engineered titanium alloy screw into the bone on the roof of your mouth or between teeth is quick and simple. As your orthodontic treatment progresses, your teeth will be gently pulled into place by the fixed TAD without damaging the neighboring teeth. Ultimately, TADs allow only the tooth in question to be moved.

Benefits of TADs

Compared to traditional orthodontic methods that tend to be uncomfortable, TADs offer many advantages for even the most complex problems, such as anterior open bite, overdeveloped jaw, tilted molars, impacted cuspids, and occlusal cants. In addition to being minimally invasive, benefits include:

  • Convenience
  • Shorter treatment time
  • Comfort
  • More control of placement
  • Improved aesthetics
  • Quick recovery
  • Easy removal
  • Increased range of non-surgical orthodontic options

As your board-certified oral & Maxillo-facial surgeon, Dr. Gilbert evaluates your case and creates a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. Pairing the advanced technology of TADs with our expert knowledge and experience ensures you get the smile you deserve.

Get the Best Oral and Maxillo-Facial Surgery Services!

Experience personalized, comprehensive and a passionate commitment to patient care by
Dr. David Gilbert

Please call our Upland CA office at (909) 982-8888 with any questions or schedule an online consultation