Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs)

Your safety and comfort is our priority

What is a TAD?

Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) are small mini-screws—typically made from titanium or titanium alloy—that are temporarily implanted into the jawbone to serve as stable anchor points in orthodontic treatment.

They provide a fixed base against which force can be applied to move teeth more efficiently, particularly useful when anchoring from other teeth isn't feasible or when traditional headgear would otherwise be required.

How is a TAD placed?

Anesthesia Options
We’ll help you choose the right anesthesia option based on your needs, level of anxiety, and medical history:

Local Anesthesia: Numbs only the area around the teeth. You're awake but feel no pain.
Nitrous Oxide ("Laughing Gas"): Used with local anesthesia to help you relax.
IV Sedation: You are deeply relaxed and may not remember the procedure.

Procedure

Procedure typically takes 30–45 minutes, depending on the number of TADs:

Preparation: Review orthodontist’s treatment plan and imaging (panoramic X-ray or CBCT scan) to determine ideal TAD position.
Anesthesia: Once anesthesia is administered, the area is completely numb.
Accessing the jawbone: A small incision may be made in the gum.
Pilot hole: A small pilot hole is drilled into the jawbone to prevent cracking when the TAD is placed.
TAD insertion: The TAD is slowly driven into the jawbone with a low-speed hand piece.
Stability Check: Clinical check for the stability of the TAD.
Stitches: Dissolvable stitches may be placed to help the area heal.
Orthodontist: Your orthodontist will continue the treatment plan with elastics or wires.

Post-Operation Instructions