If you’re looking for advanced techniques to support your smile transformation, our orthodontist in Grand Rapids and Greenville, MI, may recommend temporary anchorage devices (TADs). These small titanium implants serve as stable anchor points in the mouth, enabling precise and efficient tooth movement. TADs can be used alongside braces or as an alternative to more traditional methods like headgear.
What Happens When a TAD Is Placed?
Before placing a TAD, a local anesthetic is used to thoroughly numb the gum and jaw in the area where it will be inserted. Once numb, our orthodontist carefully places the tiny device through the gum and into the jawbone.
The procedure is fast—often completed in just a few minutes. While you might feel slight pressure during placement, this sensation typically fades quickly, and within a day, most patients don’t notice the at all. When it’s no longer needed to guide your tooth movement, the device is simply and painlessly removed.
Managing Minor Discomfort
If you experience any soreness after your TAD has been inserted, an over-the-counter pain reliever like Tylenol® can help alleviate it. Continued discomfort beyond a few days isn’t typical, so be sure to reach out to our orthodontic team if anything feels off.
Keeping Your TAD Clean
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential when wearing TADs. You should brush at least three times per day, just as you would with . In addition, our orthodontist will provide you with an antimicrobial mouthwash to help prevent bacteria buildup—use it twice daily as directed.