Temporary Anchorage Device (TAD)

Temporary Anchorage Devices (temporary mini-screw implants into the bone) are commonly used in orthodontics to provide a source of anchorage for the application of force needed to move a tooth. If such a TAD needs to be placed, a small amount of local anaesthetic is given to the patient prior to the placement of the TAD. Such screws can become loose or even break, sometimes damaging the surrounding tissue. This can cause tissue to become infected or inflamed. These occurrences are rare but may require referral to another medical or dental expert. Please advise our staff if you have had problems with local anaesthetics in the past.