Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADS)
in Bellevue, WA

Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADS) Near You

Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADS) are small, screw-like dental implants made of a titanium alloy. As the name implies, they're temporary — they usually remain in place during some months of treatment, and then they are removed. Their function is to provide a stable anchorage — that is, a fixed point around which other things (namely, teeth) can be moved. But why is anchorage so important?Moving teeth in the jaw has been compared to moving a stick through the sand. With the application of force, sand moves aside in front of the stick and fills up the space behind. The "sand" in this case consists of bone cells and cells of the periodontal ligament, which attaches the tooth to the bone. These tissues slowly move aside and reform as force is applied to them by orthodontic appliances, such as wires and elastics.Orthodontic force needs a stable anchor—like feet planted in sand—to move teeth effectively. While back teeth or headgear are often used, TADS offer a simpler, more comfortable alternative for reliable anchorage without the hassle.

What TADS Can Do

Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADS) are small, screw-like dental implants made of a titanium alloy. As the name implies, they're temporary — they usually remain in place during some months of treatment. Using teeth as orthodontic anchors can be limited when no suitable tooth is available or when high force causes unwanted movement. TADS (Temporary Anchorage Devices) near you offer a solution by providing stable, mini-implant support, reducing or eliminating the need to rely on teeth for anchorage during treatment.

TADS can also provide an anchorage point for a pushing or pulling force that would otherwise need to be applied from outside the mouth: generally, via orthodontic headgear. Wearing headgear can be uncomfortable, and compliance is sometimes a problem. In many situations, TADS can eliminate the need for headgear, which is a welcome development for many patients.

The use of TADS offers other benefits as well: It may shorten overall treatment time, eliminate the need to wear elastics (rubber bands), and in some cases, even make certain oral surgeries unnecessary. It also allows orthodontists to take on complex cases, which might formerly have proved very difficult to treat. This small device does a big job!

Getting (and Maintaining) TADS 

TADS in Bellevue are small, screw-like devices placed in the jawbone, similar to dental implants. However, unlike implants, they don’t need to integrate with the bone and are held in place by mechanical force. This makes them much easier to insert and remove, offering a simple, efficient solution for orthodontic anchorage.Placing and removing TADS is quick, minimally invasive, and virtually pain-free. After numbing the area, patients feel only slight pressure during insertion. The process takes minutes, and most don't need pain relief afterward. Removal is even easier, making the entire procedure simple and stress-free. While they're in place, TADS require minimal maintenance. Generally, they should be brushed twice daily with a soft toothbrush dipped in an antimicrobial solution. We will give you specific instructions regarding maintenance when your TADS are placed.Not every orthodontic patient needs TADS — but for those who do, it's a treatment option that offers some clear benefits.

Experience Comfortable,
Effective Orthodontic Treatment!

Say goodbye to bulky headgear—discover how TADS at Dona M Seely Orthodontics can simplify your smile journey. Schedule your consultation today!