Temporary Anchorage Device (TAD)

Sometimes a tooth needs to be moved in a specific direction and there is not a suitable tooth available to act as the anchor. Temporary anchorage devices, also known as TADs, are very helpful in these instances and provide a fixed point that we can use to shift teeth. 

At Nalchajian Orthodontics, Dr. Greg Nalchajian and Dr. Nicole Nalchajian use temporary anchorage devices to comfortably and effectively move teeth. If you or your child need teeth moved or require any type of orthodontic treatment, we invite you to contact our office in Fresno or Clovis, CA, today to schedule an appointment.

How Do TADs Work?

TADs are titanium posts that are inserted directly into the gums and jaw bone, then connected to the specific tooth that requires movement. This anchor creates force on the tooth and gently pulls it into the desired position. TADs are temporary and will be removed by your orthodontist once the teeth have finished shifting. 

What TADs Can Treat

Your orthodontist may recommend a TAD if we need to move one tooth but not the others. TADs are often used in conjunction with braces and can be used to treat several orthodontic conditions, including: 

• Underbite, overbite, or other bite misalignment
• Close space in the dental arch caused by tooth extraction or tooth loss 
• Straighten molars
• Pull an impacted tooth into proper alignment 
• Serve as an anchor for other orthodontic appliances 

Temporary anchorage devices are incredibly versatile and suitable for patients of all ages. By using a TAD to move a tooth, we can contribute to a comfortable tooth straightening process. 

Placing a Temporary Anchorage Device

During your first visit, Dr. Greg and Dr. Nicole will evaluate your oral health and outline the details of your orthodontic care. We use advanced 3D scanning technology to take detailed images of the facial structures. These images allow us to create accurate treatment plans with predictable outcomes. If a TAD is a part of your treatment plan, we will walk you through the steps ahead of time so you know what to expect. 

The procedure to place the TAD is minimally invasive and is performed by an orthodontist or oral surgeon. Local anesthesia will be administered to the site where the TAD implant will be placed to numb the area. You may feel slight pressure as the TAD is being placed. It’s normal to feel some soreness for a few days after having a TAD placed, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. 

Be sure to keep your TAD clean to prevent infection by rinsing your mouth after brushing or as directed by your orthodontist. We may provide you with a special mouth rinse that kills bacteria to prevent infection. If you ever have questions at any point throughout your orthodontic care, contact your team at Nalchajian Orthodontics. We’re here to help!

Temporary Anchorage Devices in Fresno and Clovis, CA

If you are interested in learning more about our services and how we can help achieve a healthy, straight, and beautiful smile for yourself or your child, please contact one of our offices in Fresno, CA, or Clovis, CA. Dr. Greg and Dr. Nicole will create a custom treatment plan designed around your dental health, smile goals, and budget.