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Temporary Anchorage Devices (TAD's)
Temporary Anchorage Device is positioned to the right
Dear Patients and Parents,
As I mentioned in my New Year's Message (Winter 2008 Edition of Newsletter), our goals this year will focus on continuing education, training and improving organizational systems. With this in mind, I would like to introduce you to an area of orthodontics where I have focused my continuing education efforts.
Temporary Anchorage Devices (TAD's) provide a fixed, immovable anchor for space closure, molar uprighting, correction of open bites, and many other tooth movements. Utilizing TAD's, I am able to get results that may not have been accomplished with braces alone. The advantages for the patient are many; greater comfort (i.e. no headgear), speeds treatment time and drastically reduces patient compliance. Placing the temporary anchorage device is done in my office, and is pain-free. To help educate our patients on TAD's, I thought it would be a good idea to present some facts:
What is a TAD? A TAD is a miniature screw that we position in the mouth. It serves as an anchor for moving specific teeth in the most controlled and predictable way possible. TAD's are made of sterile medical-grade titanium alloy. They eliminate cumbersome appliances (e.g., headgear) and allow us to treat certain cases better and faster than ever before. TAD's are truly revolution- izing orthodontic treatment.
How exactly is the TAD positioned? After numbing the area where the TAD is to be placed, I will use gentle pressure to insert it through the gums and into the bone between teeth. While it's normal to assume the procedure would be painful, it is actually pain-free. We apply a fast-acting gel where the TAD will be inserted. After the gel desensitizes the area topically, we use a small amount of local anesthetic that completely numbs it. The patient may feel some slight pressure during insertion, but no pain. The entire procedure takes only a few seconds.
Click here to see Dr. John Graham inserting TAD on You Tube (Funny!)
How long will the TAD need to stay in place? As the name implies, the anchorage device is temporary and is typically removed in a few months when it is no longer needed to assist in tooth movement. The TAD can be moved to different positions, and may be in place six months to a year depending upon the movement necessary.
Will it hurt to remove it? No. Before we remove it, we will place numbing gel around the TAD and then back it out gently. The entire process takes only a few seconds.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS FOR TAD's
Will I have pain after the TAD's are placed? No. Some patients say they feel a little pressure for a short period of time afterward. During the continuing education courses on TAD's I have attended, Doctors actually take turns placing TAD's on each other. I have experienced the placement of TAD's, and I have felt some pressure, however, it was for a brief time. Some patients may need to use an over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprophen.
What if it aches the next day? There is no reason for alarm. Minor aching associated with new tooth move- ment is not only normal, but expected, however, if you have concerns, simply call our office and we'll make arrangements to see you. Most likely, we will suggest you take an over-the-counter remedy to lessen the ache.
What if the TAD or its attachment causes an irritation inside my cheeks or lips? For immediate relief, you may be able to cover the attachment that is causing the irritation with a cotton swab or a small amount of wax. Call the office, and we'll give you instructions and/or make an appointment to see you.
What if the TAD comes loose? On occasion, a TAD might become a little loose. In most cases this minor mobility is nothing to be concerned about, however, if you feel the TAD is excessively loose, or it is causing you discomfort, call the office and we'll make an appointment to see you to determine if the amount of give is normal.
How do I keep the TAD clean? We will give you a solution with which you will brush the TAD twice daily using a soft toothbrush.
Orthodontists have been using TAD's since 1983, and Oral Surgeons and Orthopedists have used miniature screws like this for decades longer. Recent refinements in the devices and the procedures for their use have propelled the application of TAD's to a heightened level in orthodontics. With TAD's, I can offer patients orthodontic treatment options that are greater. I am excited to be at the forefront of this technology and feel confident that should I recommend TAD's to assist your orthodontic care, your experience will be comfortable, and the results exemplary.
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