What is a Temporary Anchorage Device? 

A TAD is a miniscrew, or pin, created from a titanium material that is placed in the mouth as an anchor, or fixed point, to increase the stability of tooth movement. It is attached to braces and is used to stabilize teeth that need to stay in place and allow teeth to move that otherwise could not with braces alone.


How Does the TAD Procedure Work?

Another way of looking at the TAD technique is that of attempting to push a stick through sand with the sand representing the bone cells and periodontal ligaments (cells that attach teeth to bone). As force is placed on this tissue the bone reforms and moves. The TAD ensures that only the desired teeth are moved. Going back to our sand analogy, it could be described as being in a boat attempting to move the stick, which would be difficult. But planting your feet firmly in the sand provides the force necessary to move it.  

Having a TAD placed is a safe and painless process. A numbing injection will be used for the procedure and an over the counter pain reliever is all that may be needed if necessary.


Maintaining the TAD Device

Minimal maintenance is needed for a TAD. Normal brushing habits are continued with the addition of dipping your soft bristle toothbrush into an antimicrobial solution.


Why Choose Still Water Ortho For Implanting Your TAD Device?

We know that TAD’s may be unfamiliar to many of our patients and we want you to be as knowledgeable as possible. To that end, our specialists at Still Water are available to answer your questions and walk you through the entire process.