Download Information on TADs - Buxton Orthodontics

Orthodontic TADs Information
You have been advised to have one or more mini studs (temporary anchorage devices
TADS) placed as part of your orthodontic treatment. This is a very small stud that is
placed through the gum in to the jaw bone. Parts of the brace are attached to this stud in
order to help move the teeth to the correct position.
How is it placed?
The gum area is made to feel numb with a numbing gel; sometimes a little local
anaesthetic is also needed for this. You will be asked to rinse with an antibacterial
mouthwash. Then you will feel a pushing sensation as the TAD is inserted which will take
less than a minute.
Will it hurt?
No. Putting the TAD in will not hurt but you may have a mild ache from the area for the
next 24 hours. If required, you can take painkillers that you would normally take for a
headache e.g paracetamol.
How do I look after it?
• Gently brush round the TAD twice daily using a small headed toothbrush and fluoride
toothpaste.
• Don’t use an electric toothbrush round the TAD.
• Use a chlorhexidine (0.12%) mouthwash twice daily for the first five days after it’s been
placed.
• Don’t ‘fiddle’ with it with your fingers or tongue.
• If the TAD becomes very loose or the brace is broken then immediately contact the
practice for an appointment.
How long will it be in for?
The TAD may be left in place for the duration of your treatment (upto 18 months on
average).
How is the TAD removed?
Very easily and without the need for any local anaesthetic. The gum and bone will then
heal within a few days without any discomfort.
What are the risks?
The use of TADs does not mean that alignment of the teeth will always be successful.
NICE (the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) has said that ‘although
there is not very much evidence about how well these small studs work, there are no major
safety worries about using them’. However, there are specific risks associated with them.
It is possible that the TAD(s) could become loose which would require its/their removal and
possibly relocation or replacement with a larger screw. About 15-20% of TADs fail early
and need to be replaced. The TAD and related material may be accidentally swallowed
although this is rare. If the device cannot be stabilized for an adequate length of time, an
alternate treatment plan may be necessary. It is possible that the tissue around the TAD
could become inflamed or infected, or the soft tissue could grow over the TAD, which
could also require its removal, surgical excision of the tissue and/or the use of antibiotics
or antimicrobial rinses. Keeping the area clean as advised will help prevent this problem.
It is possible that the screws could break (i.e. upon insertion or removal). About 5% of
screws break during insertion. If this occurs, the broken piece may be left in your mouth or
surgically removed. This may require referral to another dental specialist. When inserting
the TAD(s), it is possible to damage the root of a tooth, a nerve, or to perforate the
maxillary sinus. Usually these problems are not significant but additional dental or medical
treatment may be necessary. Local anesthetic may be used when these screws are
inserted, which also has risks. Please advise the doctor placing the device if you have had
any difficulties with dental anesthetics in the past.
What if I decide I don’t want TADs?
Alternative treatment options will be discussed with you which may involve the use of
headgear, extraction of teeth, consideration of surgery to the jaws or accepting limited
goals of treatment.
Where can I get more information?
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) have more information on
this. You can also ask your orthodontist any specific queries you might have. We are
always here to help!
To visit NICE go to: www.nice.org.uk/IPG238