Orthodontic Mini-Implants or TADs
Orthodontic Mini-Implants
Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs)
Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) *
Orthodontic mini-implants in London
Mini-implants were introduced in the literature by Creekmore & Eklund in 1983 (1) as a new means of precisely controlling tooth movements during some orthodontic treatments, resisting unwanted tooth movement. They are used by orthodontists across the world to correct bite problems which would otherwise require jaw (orthognathic) surgery such as most cases of OPEN BITE.
TADs can be used to correct bite problems such anterior open bite by intruding back teeth or in difficult space closures (gaps between teeth where a few teeth are congenitally missing).
What is a mini-implant?
It’s a very small (1.5 – 2 mm wide) customised titanium alloy screw which acts as an anchor point in your jaw. Mini-implants are frequently placed between the roots of teeth, but may also be sited in the roof of the mouth. They are then connected to a fixed brace to help move the teeth.
We use two major Brands of TADs; American made Ormco VectorTas and German made Dentaurum
Tomas.
1. Creekmore TD, Eklund MK. The possibility of skeletal anchorage. J Clin Orthod. 1983;17:266–9.
Local anaesthesia is used to numb a small area of your gum, and the mini-implant is then gently inserted. You may experience an odd pressure sensation as this occurs. Once the numbness wears off you may feel some discomfort within the first 24 hours and approximately 50% of patients report taking simple painkillers (e.g. ibuprofen or paracetamol) to resolve this.
Mini-implants are easily removed when no longer needed, by unwinding them, usually without the need for any anaesthesia. The resulting small wound heals painlessly within several days.
This depends on the type of treatment you’re having, and its goals. Mini-implants are generally in place for between several months and years, but once a mini-implant is in place you’ll probably barely notice it.
You need to do little more to look after a mini-implant than you do for your fixed brace. It’s advisable to use a small toothbrush, dipped in antiseptic mouthwash, to gently clean around the top of the mini-implant. Also, avoid using an electric toothbrush on the mini-implant itself.
Scientific studies indicate that mini-implants do not damage your teeth or other mouth tissues. The vast majority of mini-implants remain stable during brace treatment and cause little nuisance. However, 10-20% of them become loose, usually within the first few months. If this occurs then it’s rarely painful and the mini-implant can be replaced if necessary. However, if you have any queries or concerns about a mini-implant then your orthodontist will be able to help.
In summary, TADs are immediately loaded miniscrews that are placed to control tooth movement during orthodontic treatment. TADs are removed when the treatment is completed. Sometimes, TADs are used to correct bite problems, which would otherwise require jaw surgery. Prior to placement, local anaesthesia is used to numb a small area of your gum, and the mini-implant (TAD) is then gently inserted. While the TAD is placed, you may feel slight pressure; which is a temporary feeling.
We can coordinate placement of your TADs with any extractions so that you don’t need to go through pain and discomfort 2 twice.
TAD is removed once treatment is complete, or when it is no longer needed. For further information please read the following section of the BOS website* or watch the following movie clip. We are conveniently located to provide you with this service in North London are including Finchley, Crouch End, Totteridge, Whetstone, Barnet, Muswell Hill & Highgate.
*Please see the following links for more information from British Orthodontic Society and other sources authored by Dr Farahani
