Braces are great, but they cannot always accomplish their task on their own. You might discover that you need certain accessories to effectively straighten your teeth. For example, some patients require temporary anchorage devices (TADs). What exactly are TADs, and what else should you know about them? This blog post shares important information.
What Are TADs?
TADs are small titanium screws that your orthodontist places in your mouth to provide extra support during your treatment. Their main purpose is to act as a stable anchor point, helping your braces or aligners move your teeth more efficiently. TADs are usually inserted into the jawbone in areas where they will not interfere with your teeth or gums, and they are removed once they have served their purpose.
Do TADs Hurt?
The placement process for TADs is quick and typically involves numbing the area with a local anesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure itself, though you may notice some pressure. Afterward, you may experience some minor discomfort and tenderness around the site for a day or two, similar to what you might feel after an orthodontic adjustment. Most patients find that any soreness fades quickly, and over-the-counter pain relievers are often enough to manage it. Your orthodontist will provide you with aftercare instructions to help keep the area clean and comfortable.
What Are the Benefits of TADs?
TADs can make certain tooth movements possible that would otherwise be very difficult or require more complex appliances. They help your orthodontist target specific teeth, making treatment more precise and sometimes even shortening the overall treatment time. TADs are versatile and can be used in a variety of cases, such as closing gaps, correcting bites, or moving teeth that are otherwise hard to shift. By adding stability, they often lead to better and more predictable outcomes for your smile.
How Long Will You Need TADs?
The length of time you will need TADs depends on your individual treatment plan. Some patients may only need them for a few months, while others might have them for a longer period if more complex movements are required. Your orthodontist will monitor your progress closely and remove the TADs as soon as they are no longer needed. Factors such as the complexity of your case, the type of tooth movement involved, and how your teeth respond to treatment will all play a part in determining the timeline.
Is There Anything Else You Should Know?
Taking care of your TADs is important to help avoid irritation or infection. You will need to keep the area clean by gently brushing around the device and possibly using an antimicrobial mouth rinse as recommended by your orthodontist.
While complications are rare, TADs can sometimes become loose or cause minor irritation. If you notice anything unusual, such as persistent discomfort, swelling, or if the device feels loose, you should contact your orthodontist promptly. Open communication with your care team will help you have a smooth experience with TADs and achieve the best results.
Temporary anchorage devices are a helpful tool that can make your orthodontic treatment more effective and efficient. If you have questions or think you might need TADs, your orthodontist is ready to guide you through the process.
Meet the Practice
Serenity Orthodontics is home to three highly skilled orthodontists who work together to provide top-quality care for Cumming and the surrounding communities. They have many years of combined experience and are always looking for opportunities to continue their education. They recommend the use of TADs in select cases to make treatment more efficient and effective. To learn more about our practice or to request a consultation, contact any of our conveniently located offices.
