Incorporating Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) In Your Practice

By Maria Therese S. Galang, D.M.D., M.S.

What exactly are TADs? Who are they for? Who places them? How do we start using them? When is it appropriate to utilize them? Where do we place them? These and other questions will be answered during this primer on “miniscrews.” The lecture will include basic information on TADs, the different types, their various applications illustrated in sample clinical cases, associated risks and complications, as well as practical tips on integrating them in your clinical practice.

Anchorage or resistance to unwanted tooth movement is fundamental to orthodontics. Unfortunately, this resistance is not always adequate and unwanted side effects often ensue. Temporary Anchorage Devices came about as an answer to this challenging problem of anchorage loss. With TADs or “miniscrews” as they are often called, we are relying not only on teeth but on bone as anchors. Hence, with TADs, we are utilizing skeletal anchorage instead of merely dental or compliance-dependent extraoral anchorage. TADs present limitless possibilities in the future of orthodontics. The use of these miniature implants has helped solve a number of tough orthodontic cases and is continuing to do so. With the advent of TADs, some surgical cases can even be managed solely orthodontically. Implant cases can be managed with better precision, adults with mutilated dentition can be dealt with fair ease, and we no longer have to rely on patient compliance.