In the fascinating world of orthodontics, there's a lot more going on than just braces. For children undergoing orthodontic treatment, temporary anchorage devices, or TADs, play a crucial role in achieving that perfect smile. Let's introduce and explore some common types of TADs: mini-screws, mini-plates, and Onplants.
Imagine TADs as tiny, helpful anchors that orthodontists temporarily place in the mouth to assist tooth movement. They provide stable points that can be used to push, pull, lift, or intrude teeth, making complex tooth movements predictable and efficient.
First up, we have mini-screws, also known as micro-screws or temporary anchorage screws. These are the most common type of TADs due to their versatility and ease of placement. They are self-drilling, self-tapping screws made of titanium alloy, with lengths varying from 6 to 12 mm and diameters from 1.2 to 2 mm. Orthodontists can place them in various locations in the mouth under local anesthesia, and they can be loaded immediately or after a healing period.
Next, let's talk about mini-plates. These are L- or T-shaped titanium plates placed surgically under the gums and fixed with screws. Mini-plates provide excellent stability and can withstand heavy forces. They are particularly useful when more anchorages is needed, or when mini-screws aren't an option due to insufficient bone quality or quantity. Mini-plates do require a minor surgical procedure for placement and removal, but they offer a robust solution for complex cases.
Lastly, let's introduce Onplants. These are custom-made devices that sit on the bone under the gum tissue like a small button or dome. Onplants are typically placed surgically under local anesthesia and can be used with a wide range of auxiliaries for tooth movement. They are particularly useful when other TADs can't be placed due to root proximity or insufficient interradicular space.
TADs have revolutionized orthodontic treatment for children by making complex tooth movements more predictable and efficient. They help reduce treatment time and improve the quality of results. So even though they might sound a bit intimidating at first, TADs are truly helpful innovations in a child's journey towards a beautiful, healthy smile.