TEMPORARY ANCHORAGE DEVICES

Temporary Anchorage Devices can gently and effectively change the position of teeth for an even bite and esthetic appearance.

At Periodontal Associates of Memphis, a comprehensive approach to dentistry allows us to combine treatments to improve patient outcomes. Temporary Anchorage Devices can help enhance the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment and Wilckodontics.

Dr. Craddock, Dr. Godat, and Dr. King can develop a treatment plan that precisely outlines the desired position of each tooth and uses temporary anchorage devices to help create an even, healthy, beautiful smile. Contact us for an appointment today!

What are Temporary Anchorage Devices?

Temporary anchorage devices, or TADs, are very small screw-like devices placed by Drs. Godat and Craddock to help improve orthodontic treatment outcomes. TADs allow an increased range of tooth movement with orthodontics. Unlike teeth, TADs do not move in the gum; instead, they provide additional anchorage to leverage the movement of the teeth around them and can simplify the mechanics (movement of teeth) when used in conjunction with braces.

What are the Benefits of Temporary Anchorage Devices?

Using temporary anchorage devices helps clinicians by providing them with alternative means to treat a full range of orthodontic cases without compensating for the inadvertent reciprocal movement of adjacent teeth. This increases clinical efficiency and control as well as patient compliance, reduces treatment time and anchorage demand, and can permit the employment of more simplified mechanics without surgery. TADs help patients by reducing the need for headgear, elastic wear, surgeries and extractions, while at the same time increasing their comfort during treatment and reducing treatment time.

Who is a Candidate for Temporary Anchorage Devices?

The patients most likely to benefit from the temporary anchorage devices have extremely complex tooth positioning issues that require tooth movements which are difficult to accomplish. These tooth movements can include:

• Molar up-righting
• Molar intrusion
• Retracting front teeth
• Moving the back molar teeth forward
• Correcting uneven bites or planes of occlusion
• Closing anterior open bites
• Assisting in closing open bites
• Pulling impacted teeth into position

The successful integration of TADs into an orthodontics or Wilckodontics plan depends on correct placement. Dr. Craddock, Dr Godat, and Dr. King have completed specific training on TAD placement and use to improve orthodontics results.

How Do Temporary Anchorage Devices Work?

One of our periodontists will perform a study of the patient’s mouth and determine where fixed points are needed to apply pressure correctly to teeth in need of movement. The TADs are implanted carefully into the bone of the jaw using a topical anesthetic to numb the gum, and the bracketed tooth or teeth are connected to it to apply minute pressure. Once the orthodontic or Wilckodontics treatment is complete, the TADs are easily removed.

Ask us About Temporary Anchorage Devices Today

If you think you could be a candidate for temporary anchorage devices, contact Periodontal Associates of Memphis. A consultation with Dr. Craddock, Dr Godat, or Dr. King can determine if your orthodontics or Wilckodontics case can benefit from the application of TADs. Request an appointment today!