Will a Temporary Orthodontic Anchorage Device Benefit Me?
Some patients who long for straighter smiles may face some obstacles to traditional orthodontic treatment. For example, if a tooth that needs to be moved is adjacent to a large gap, there may be no surface to which the next bracket can be attached so that forces can be properly applied to the targeted tooth. A Temporary Anchorage Device (TAD) can help patients overcome such treatment challenges. TADs are tiny surgical screws that an oral surgeon places in designated locations in the jaw. The TAD is made of titanium, so the bone can fuse with it and it will stay in place for the duration of treatment. If an extra anchor is needed for the orthodontic appliances in your case, a TAD may be beneficial. TADs also can be helpful when it’s necessary to correct the bite in addition to the alignment of the teeth. The orthodontist and oral surgeon…