Temporary Anchorage Device (TAD) Surgery
In Grass Valley, CA
Support Orthodontic Treatment With Comfort and Precision
Orthodontic treatment often depends on precise control of tooth movement. In certain cases, your orthodontist may recommend a Temporary Anchorage Device (TAD) to help achieve optimal results. At Valentine Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, our board-certified oral surgeon is skilled in the careful placement and removal of TADs, ensuring both patient comfort and accurate treatment outcomes.
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What Is a Temporary Anchorage Device (TAD)?
A Temporary Anchorage Device, or TAD, is a tiny titanium screw that serves as a secure anchor within the mouth. Resembling a small earring stud, it is inserted into the bone to provide steady support during tooth movement. Once the desired orthodontic adjustments are completed, your oral surgeon can easily remove the TAD.
Because it temporarily integrates with the bone, a TAD acts as a reliable anchor, allowing some teeth to move while others remain stable—something braces or aligners alone cannot always accomplish.
Why TADs Are Used
In orthodontics, precise forces must be applied to reposition teeth correctly. When extra stability is required—for example, when there is a gap, a missing tooth, or a need to move one tooth independently—a TAD may be recommended.
Common reasons for TAD placement include:
- Providing a firm anchor for controlled tooth movement
- Correcting bite issues or tooth positioning that braces alone cannot resolve
- Reducing reliance on bulky headgear or more invasive procedures
- Assisting in closing gaps or moving teeth into proper alignment more efficiently
In many instances, using a TAD can also shorten overall orthodontic treatment time.
The TAD Placement Procedure
TAD placement is a straightforward outpatient procedure performed at Valentine Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Grass Valley, CA.
With local anesthesia, your oral surgeon carefully inserts the titanium screw into the bone. Most patients experience minimal discomfort—often described as similar to having an orthodontic bracket placed.
Once in place, your orthodontist can immediately begin applying gentle forces to guide tooth movement.
After treatment goals are achieved, the TAD is quickly and comfortably removed, usually with just topical anesthesia.
After Surgery: Recovery and Care
Recovery from TAD placement is generally fast. Most patients return to work, school, or their daily routine the same day.
To promote healing and prevent complications:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene before and after surgery
- Avoid touching or moving the device with your tongue or fingers
- Follow all post-operative instructions carefully
- Report any looseness, irritation, or discomfort promptly
Proper care helps ensure the TAD stays stable and supports successful orthodontic results.
Your Trusted Oral Surgery Team for TAD Placement
In Grass Valley, CAOur oral surgeon at Valentine Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery has extensive experience placing Temporary Anchorage Devices in partnership with orthodontists across Grass Valley, CA.
We prioritize comfort, precision, and patient education, making sure every TAD placement contributes to the best possible orthodontic outcome.
If your orthodontist has recommended a TAD, or you want to learn more about the procedure, contact Valentine Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Grass Valley, CA to schedule a consultation today.
Your surgeon will address all your questions at the consultation including some of these very common questions about Temporary Anchorage Device (TADs).
- What is a TAD (temporary anchorage device) in orthodontics?
- Why did my orthodontist say I need a tiny screw for braces?
- How painful is TAD placement and removal?
- How long will a TAD stay in my mouth?
- What happens if a TAD becomes loose?
- How do I clean around a TAD and take care of it?
- Where is a TAD placed in the mouth, and how visible is it?
- Does getting a TAD mean I need surgery?
- Can a TAD speed up my orthodontic treatment?
- Are there risks or complications with TADs (infection, root damage, failure)?