TAD Overview
Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) are miniature anchor devices made of a surgical grade titanium allow (approx 1.5 mm in diameter and 6-8 mm long) used in select orthodontic cases, to serve as a form of absolute anchorage allowing the orthodontist to efficiently correct your bite without the use of headgear, excessive elastics, or other extra appliances.
Placement of the TAD is generally a quick and simple procedure – an anesthetic is used to numb the tissue and the TAD is placed through the gum tissue and into the jawbone. You’ll usually only experience slight pressure during the placement. TAD removal is quick and comfortable and usually takes just a few minutes without any anesthesia.
Uses for TADs
Several permanent teeth are missing
Excessive dental asymmetry exists
Close extraction spaces and avoid implant placement
Upright tipped or impacted teeth
Close open bites otherwise requiring jaw surgery
Correct underbites by retracting the lower teeth back
TADs Post-Operative Patient Information
Managing Discomfort
Initial discomfort may be experienced after TAD-placement,but will go away in 1-2 days
To manage this initial discomfort Tylenol is recommended immediately after the procedure, and only as needed afterwards .
If pain is severe and continues days after placement, please contact our office as soon as possible.
Excellent Oral Hygiene is Key!
The primary reason for TAD failure is poor oral hygiene which causes inflammation and loosening of the TAD.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene as usual. We’ll give you a special anti-microbial rinse to use twice a day for 10 days.
After 10 days you can do the rinse as needed for any inflammation around the area of your TAD. Use a cotton swab soaked in hydrogen peroxide to gently clean around your TAD after brushing twice a day.
Be gentle with your TADs
Avoid touching the TAD with your finger or tongue.
Do not eat anything hard, sticky or chewy- taking care to especially avoid the area around the TAD.
Emergencies
If the TAD or any orthodontic attachments on the TAD come loose please contact the office immediately. Please contact info@tri-ortho.com for assistance outside of normal office hours.