Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADS)

Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) in Modern Orthodontics

What Exactly Are TADs?

Sometimes, even the most advanced braces or aligners need a little extra support. That’s where Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) come in. These tiny, titanium pins are made from medical-grade titanium alloy, the same material often used in surgical implants and joint replacements. This specific alloy is highly biocompatible, meaning it integrates safely with the bone without triggering allergic or immune responses.

These tiny devices are gently placed in the jawbone, often between the roots of the teeth or in the palate. Once in place, they act like stable anchor points, allowing teeth to be moved with exceptional control without putting unwanted pressure on other teeth.

Because they’re temporary, TADs are removed once they’ve completed their job, leaving no lasting impact on the surrounding bone or tissue. They’re discreet, efficient, and incredibly effective for both simple and complex orthodontic cases.

Dr Anastasia carefully integrates TADs into custom treatment plans to improve accuracy, shorten treatment time, and enhance overall outcomes. Small but powerful, they’re an innovative tool in the orthodontic toolbox.

When and Why TADs Are Used

TADs are especially useful when braces or aligners alone aren’t enough to achieve certain movements. They give us greater control and precision, often making treatment faster, more predictable, and less invasive. You might benefit from TADs if:

You need to move teeth in one direction without shifting others
Your bite needs vertical correction, such as in open bite or deep bite
cases
You're missing teeth and need a strong anchor point to close spaces
You’re undergoing space closure after extractions
You require complex movements that clear aligners or standard braces
can't achieve alone
You want to avoid headgear, jaw surgery, or bulky external appliances
You’re looking for a more efficient and streamlined treatment

TADs are also used in more advanced orthodontic mechanics, such as:

Growth modification in younger patients, by guiding jaw development without relying on compliance
Orthopaedic expansion, especially when used with devices like the Hybrid Hyrax for widening the upper jaw
Molar distalisation and protraction using systems like the BENEslider, which moves molars with exceptional control
Midline correction and asymmetry management, especially in cases involving jaw imbalance
Supporting impacted tooth traction (like canines) to help bring them into alignment without affecting other teeth

Because they don’t move and don’t rely on patient compliance, TADs allow orthodontists to perform tooth movements that are not just harder—but sometimes impossible—without them.

TADs can be used on their own or alongside LightForce™ braces, clear aligners like Invisalign® and Spark®, or other appliances.

Benefits of Using TADs

Completely discreet: Hidden inside the mouth
Quick to place: Done under local anaesthetic in just a few minutes
Precise and powerful: Allows advanced tooth movements
Reduces complexity: Often eliminates the need for surgery or extra
appliances
Faster treatment: Optimises force control, often reducing total treatment
time
Comfortable: Most patients experience little to no discomfort after
placement

The Process: Simple and Streamlined

The idea of having a small implant placed might sound intimidating. But it’s a quick, minimally invasive process that requires no recovery time. Here’s what to expect:

Digital Planning
Dr Anastasia will take 3D scans and imaging to determine the ideal location for your TAD(s).
Gentle Placement
A small amount of local anaesthetic is applied, and the TAD is gently inserted into the bone. Usually in less than five minutes.
Active Support
Your braces or aligners will then work in tandem with the TAD to apply precise forces to move your teeth as planned.
Easy Removal
Once no longer needed, the TAD is simply unscrewed, leaving no long-term effects on the bone or gum.

Smart Support for Complex Tooth Movement

TADs aren’t needed in every case. But when they are, they offer a level of control and efficiency that can truly elevate your orthodontic outcome. Dr Bakopoulou will only recommend them if they provide a clear benefit for your treatment and smile goals.

Whether you're a teen undergoing jaw modification or an adult dealing with crowding or bite correction, TADs can make the impossible possible—safely, comfortably, and invisibly.

Invisible. Temporary. Incredibly effective

TADs are the behind-the-scenes heroes helping you get to your perfect smile—one precise movement at a time.