Temporary Anchorage Devices (TAD)
A temporary anchorage device (TAD) is a bone anchor made of titanium that looks like a miniature version of a wood screw. Dr. Fulton may choose to use a TAD to provide an anchor that she can use to move a nearby tooth. When she places a TAD, Dr. Fulton first numbs the site with a powerful, topical anesthetic gel. No needles are used. The TAD is placed directly through the gum tissue into the bone. On the day of placement, patients may feel a little pressure, which can be treated with Tylenol or Ibuprofen. Typically, patients report no pain or pressure the day after placement. The patient gently brushes the TAD twice a day with an antimicrobial rinse. Dr. Fulton removes the TAD when orthodontic treatment is completed or the TAD is no longer needed. It takes less than a minute for removal, which is painless. |
