Irvine, CA – Have you had a consultation with your orthodontist only to be shocked when they recommended TADs as part of your treatment plan? Today, Dr. Updike will be answering the most frequently asked questions regarding TADs.
TADs are an abbreviation for “Temporary Anchorage Devices”. They are mini implants or mini screws that are inserted into the mouth to help move teeth quickly and accurately. TADs may sound intimidating to patients who are considering orthodontic treatment, but we are here to ease concerns you may feel about them.
If your orthodontist recommended TADs, it is because it can be used to achieve the overall best result for your treatment. TADs can diminish the gumminess of a smile, correct deep or open bites, or molars that have erupted abnormally.
Depending on your treatment plan, TADs are typically inserted into the bone of the jaw in between the roots of your teeth.
TADs are minimally invasive, safe, and cause little to no pain. Before the TADs are inserted, the area is numbed using an anesthetic. There may be small amounts of pain after the anesthetic wears off within the first 24 hours. Many patients report that there is pressure when the mini implant or screw is inserted, but the discomfort level is similar to getting your braces tightened. As long as you take care of the implant, there should be no complications while the implant is in.
On average, each mini screw or mini implant costs about $300- $600 on top of the cost of braces.
There are minimal side effects with the use of TADs. One possibility is that the mini implant or screw may become loose during treatment, but this is easily fixed.
No. TADs are inserted when your orthodontist recommends it during orthodontic treatment, and are removed once they are no longer needed. The removal of TADs is simple and painless, and the area typically heals within a week.
So while TADs may seem intimidating at first, it is important to understand they are effective, safe, and generally painless. They will help achieve the best result overall within your treatment plan. If you have any additional questions regarding TADs, please give us a call at (949) 870-9713.
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