Temporary Anchorage Devices

Precision orthodontic movement often depends on a fixed point that will not budge, and for many complex cases, that point is a tiny titanium screw placed with surgical accuracy. Temporary anchorage devices, or TADs, give orthodontists a stable foundation to move teeth in directions that traditional braces and elastics alone cannot reliably achieve.

At Wilshire Oral Surgery and Implant Center, we work alongside orthodontists throughout West Los Angeles to place these devices with the precision that complex tooth movement demands. As board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons, we bring surgical expertise to a step that directly influences how predictably your orthodontic treatment progresses. Our practice is part of the full-scope oral and maxillofacial surgery we provide for patients and referring providers across the region.

What a Temporary Anchorage Device Is

A temporary anchorage device is a small titanium screw fixed to the jawbone to serve as a stationary anchor point for orthodontic movement. Because the screw is anchored directly in bone rather than relying on neighboring teeth, it allows your orthodontist to apply controlled force to the teeth that need to move without putting strain on the teeth that should stay in place.

TADs revolutionized fixed anchorage control by offering a minimally invasive, highly efficient solution that does not depend on patient compliance with headgear or elastics.

According to a bibliometric analysis published in The Angle Orthodontist, research interest in temporary anchorage devices has grown substantially over the past decade as clinicians recognize their role in achieving outcomes that were once difficult or impossible. These devices are placed at the start of or during active orthodontic care and are removed once they have served their purpose.

Why an Oral Surgeon Places TADs

Placing a TAD looks simple, but the location, angle, and depth of the screw determine whether it stays stable throughout treatment. Surgical training matters here because the ideal placement site sits near roots, nerves, and sinus structures that must be respected.

As oral surgeons, we use advanced imaging and surgical experience to position each device safely and accurately. This precision protects the surrounding anatomy and gives your orthodontist a dependable anchor to work from. The same surgical judgment we apply to procedures like orthognathic surgery and exposing and bonding impacted teeth informs how we approach anchorage placement.

The Placement and Removal Procedure

The procedure is typically quick and performed in our office with local anesthesia, and sedation options are available for patients who prefer them. Most patients are surprised by how straightforward the experience is from start to finish. Here is what the process generally involves for our patients:

Throughout each step, we keep your orthodontist informed so your overall treatment stays on schedule and on track.

Who Is a Candidate for a TAD

Most candidates are orthodontic patients referred to us by their orthodontist for a specific anchorage need. Good candidates have healthy gum tissue and adequate bone at the planned placement site, which we confirm with imaging before treatment.

Patients of many ages benefit from TADs, from teenagers in active braces to adults pursuing complex tooth movement. Because we serve a predominantly insured, professional population across West LA, Beverly Hills, and Century City, we coordinate closely with referring orthodontists to make the process seamless for shared patients. Our referring doctor relationships are central to how we support orthodontic care in this market.

Why Choose Wilshire Oral Surgery and Implant Center

Patients and referring orthodontists across West Los Angeles trust us because we combine modern surgical technology with a personal, individualized approach to every case. Dr. Jonathan Shadi and our board-certified team use the latest 3D imaging and surgical techniques to plan precise placement, support faster recovery, and protect the surrounding anatomy. We also offer bilingual care, with Spanish and Persian spoken in our office, so that communication is never a barrier for our patients.

If you are an orthodontist seeking a trusted surgical partner or a patient whose orthodontist has recommended a temporary anchorage device, we are ready to help. Reach out through our contact page to schedule a consultation at our West Los Angeles office and experience the precision and care that define our practice.

Frequently Asked Questions