Needless to say, orthodontic treatments have undergone superb advancements in recent years, thanks to the introduction of innovative techniques and devices. One such groundbreaking development is the temporary anchorage device (TAD). Having revolutionized the field of orthodontics, it has continued to remain in the spotlight ever since its emergence.
So you have been recommended to reap the many perks offered by TADs? But you are not familiar with this treatment and haven’t heard much about it. This is why a plethora of questions related to this procedure persistently revolve in your mind.
Well, if you don’t have in-depth knowledge about this treatment, you don’t have to worry. This article gets you covered and furnishes complete information on this procedure. So keep reading to get yourself acquainted.
What are Temporary Anchorage Devices?
When it comes to shedding light on temporary anchorage devices, they are essentially utilized to correct the alignment of teeth. These small orthodontic appliances can also be used to reposition the jaw when it is out of alignment.
It is imperative to highlight here that orthodontists often use TADs in conjunction with braces or other orthodontic treatments. While every orthodontic patient might not require TADS, those who embrace it are often seen hailing the virtues of this modality. To put it simply, this effective modality has made its presence felt by offering a plethora of compelling benefits.
More about Temporary Anchorage Devices
Temporary anchorage devices are principally biocompatible devices that are essentially fixed to the bone, serving the sole purpose of allowing the easy facilitation of your teeth. They help to accomplish such tasks either by bracing the teeth being employed as anchorage points or by averting the need for such a reaction in the first place.
To your knowledge, these miniature implant devices can be adhered to the bone either biochemically (implementing the procedure termed "osseointegration) or mechanically (through cortical stabilization). Additionally, these TADs are flexible enough to be used in several other regions of the jaw, fundamentally relying on the anchorage and movement needed. And once the complete treatment is accomplished, these devices are simply removed from the mouth.
You may wonder how much this orthodontic treatment costs. Well, it typically depends on several factors. Hence, your orthodontist will be in the ideal position to tell you more about this.
How does a Temporary Anchorage Device appear?
As stated above, it is a tiny titanium screw, generally between 1 ½ and 2 millimeters in diameter. It is purposefully designed with the sole intent of being compatible with human tissue. Orthodontists are known to place this screw into a patient’s gums and jaw, serving as an anchor to brace the movement of your teeth.
Will the temporary anchorage device cause discomfort?
While several questions might be encompassing your mind, one of them likely to be on the list is: will this device cause discomfort to you? To get your answer, keep reading the below section!
Before an orthodontist inserts a temporary anchorage device, he or she will use local anesthesia to numb a small portion of the gum where the TAD is to be placed. Hence, when the implant is inserted, the only thing you will feel is a slight sensation of pressure. In addition to this, you might experience slight discomfort after the anesthetic wears off, which is likely to last at least 24 hours post-insertion. But your orthodontist will recommend some medicines that can alleviate this discomfort.
When the temporary anchorage devices fulfill their purpose of fixing alignment issues, they are no longer needed. In such cases, their removal is simple and generally painless, avoiding the use of anesthesia. Within a few days after a TAD’s removal, the site where it was initially placed will typically heal with no residual pain.
Duration of Temporary Anchorage Devices in the Oral Cavity
The quick answer to this question is that it depends from patient to patient based on their specific needs and other conditions. In most cases, they are kept for only a few months. It is unlike other treatments like braces, which are left in the mouth for 18 years to two years or even longer.
Any there any problems or side effects associated with the use of TADs?
This is likely to bring a million-dollar smile to your face: according to research, it has been concluded that TADs do not pose any potent threats to teeth, gums, or other tissues of the mouth. Furthermore, these devices will maintain their position for a long time. You will rarely see a TAD become prematurely loose (but it is certainly not a rule of thumb). And just in case such a situation prevails, you need not worry. You will be advised of a replacement, and it will be painless.
In some cases, patients endure irritation. While it is the rarest of scenarios, there is a remedy for it. Simply place a bit of orthodontic wax over the TAD's head. This should be an ongoing activity until the irritation disappears. And if you don’t get a resolution, it makes sense to seek the services of a professional.
How do I care for and maintain Temporary Anchorage Devices?
After getting the anchorage device inserted, a recommendation to be expected from the orthodontist is to rinse the mouth twice a day for five consecutive days with the aid of an antibacterial mouthwash. And throughout the treatment period, it is essential to dip your toothbrush in the same solution to gently clean the area around the top of the implant once a day.
It is also advisable to refrain from using an electric toothbrush while TADs are installed in your mouth.
Final Words
Modern dentistry has come a long way, thanks to the wide range of orthodontic treatments available. And regardless of the modality you choose, it is imperative to always seek the services of a professional. The reliable team of experts at Dr. Masri is available around the corner to assist. Feel free to connect with them to get your issues resolved.
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