The beneficial and dramatic changes orthodontics can make in the face and smile are well-known and accepted. Braces unfortunately have limits and certain conditions are not easily treated by braces alone. This is where Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) come in.
TADs combine the tremendous benefits of implant technology and orthodontics. In short, they are special metallic pins that can be placed in the jawbone to support tooth movement that otherwise would not be possible.
One common question is why would I want TADs?
TADs are only used when they permit treatment options that are otherwise not possible. They may also be used to provide better or faster treatment plans.
TADs can have the following benefits:
1. Allow us to move just one or several teeth preventing the need for full braces in some patients. This may make your treatment much less noticeable to others.
2. Can support closing spaces for missing or extracted teeth (this may save the cost of expensive dental implants) .
3. Can help avoid jaw surgery in adults.
4. Can help avoid jaw surgery in teens by providing orthodpedic traction to help the jaws grow better.
5. Can speed up braces treatment in certain cases.
6. Allow certain tooth movements which simply would not be possible without TADs.