Mini Screw (TADs)
Orthodontic mini-implants, best known as TADs, are a relatively recent addition to the orthodontic armamentarium.
What is a Mini Screw?
​Orthodontists worldwide use them to correct bite problems that traditionally require jaw surgery; they are also used as anchors to support tooth movements that are thought to be challenging to accomplish by braces alone. Mini screws are also known as temporary anchorage devices (TADs), mini implants, or micro implants. These devices are used to anchor or stabilize teeth in a specific position.
Size and Design
Mini screws are relatively small in size and are designed to be temporarily implanted into the bone of the jaw. They are made of materials such as titanium, which is biocompatible and integrates well with bone.
Placement
The placement of mini screws is a minor surgical procedure that is usually performed in the orthodontic office. The screws are inserted into specific locations in the jawbone to provide additional stability for the orthodontic appliances.
Temporary
Mini screws are temporary devices, and they are typically removed once the orthodontic treatment is complete. Their temporary nature allows for flexibility in treatment planning.
Versatility
Mini screws can be used in various orthodontic scenarios, such as providing anchorage for tooth movement, closing spaces between teeth, or assisting with the correction of more complex malocclusions.