Advanced Technology

TADs (Orthodontic Temporary Anchorage Devices)

Temporary anchorage devices, or TADs, are small titanium anchors used in certain orthodontic cases to help achieve quicker tooth movement with more efficiency and comfort. TADs may be used in addition to braces or as an alternative to headgear.

 

 

 

 

 

How are TADs placed?

A strong anesthetic is used to numb the gum tissue and the jaw surrounding the area where the TAD will be placed. Once the area is numb, your doctor will gently place the TAD through the gum tissue and firmly into the jawbone. The placing of a TAD is quick, and may be over before you know it. While your doctor is placing the TAD, you may feel slight pressure, but within a day, you will no longer be able to feel the TAD. Your TAD is removed once your treatment is complete, or when it is no longer needed to help straighten your teeth. Removal of a TAD is a comfortable procedure that takes just a few minutes.

What can I do to relieve discomfort caused by my TAD?

If you do feel any discomfort from having your TADs placed, Tylenol® is recommended to help relieve your pain. If you continue to experience discomfort days after your treatment, please contact your dentist as soon as possible.

How can I keep my TAD clean?

A TAD can be cleaned the same way you clean your braces: by brushing your teeth at least three times a day. When your TAD is placed, we will also provide you with an antimicrobial mouthwash that you will need to use twice a day.

If you have questions about TADs, please contact our practice. We will be able to answer any of your questions and provide you with detailed information about your orthodontic treatment.



Soft Tissue Laser

Diode laser treatment provides several benefits for patients receiving orthodontic care. With the use of a specialized diode laser, we are able to efficiently and comfortably remove excess gum tissue and expose more of the tooth's surface for better aesthetics and function. The best part is that we can usually do the treatment with only topical anesthetic applied to the gums. No need for shots or needles! Healing time is also quick, in just a matter of days. Most patients described the feeling as being similar to gums touching a hot piece of food.

Some procedures that may indicate the use of a soft tissue laser include:

  • Impacted Teeth
    • When a tooth fails to emerge through the gums and into the mouth, they are impacted. When they are covered by soft tissue, they can be exposed with a laser to help them erupt without needing to wait for months in braces for the tooth to erupt on its own.
  • Gingival Recontouring (Gingivectomy)
    • Removal of hyperplasic (overgrown) gum tissue resulting from insufficient brushing and flossing.
    • Following the removal of your braces, your smile may benefit from the reshaping of the gum line to expose more of the teeth or to achieve a more symmetric smile.
  • Frenectomy
    • A frenum, or a fold of tissue, can cause spaces to reopen in teeth (commonly in the middle of the upper lip), resorption of surrounding bone, and speech changes (under the tongue). Removal of this frenum can prevent many problems and stabilize the results from orthodontic treatment.

                                 Before                                                                  After



Propel - Accelerated Tooth Movement

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A fast, gentle way to accelerate your orthodontic treatment.

We are excited to offer accelerated orthodontic treatment with PROPEL Orthodontics! If you’re interested in improving the aesthetics of your smile, but are put off by the thought of having to spend months or even years in braces, PROPEL could be right for you. This state-of-the-art technology speeds up tooth movement, and though every patient’s situation is different, many can now have their orthodontic treatment completed in less than a year.

So, how does PROPEL work?

Over the past 20 years, new treatment options have made our patients’ orthodontic experience more efficient, but not necessarily faster. That is, until now!

PROPEL works with your own biology by stimulating the bone surrounding your teeth. It helps your teeth to move faster and more predictably into their ideal position. This allows you to see your new smile faster and requires fewer visits to our office. PROPEL can be completed right here in our office and does not require any invasive surgical procedures.

In addition, PROPEL treatment involves very little discomfort. There is zero recovery time and you will be able to return immediately to your normal daily routine.

PROPEL can be used for approximately 80% of patients receiving orthodontic treatment, and can be used in conjunction with any treatment type, including TADs, clear aligners, clear braces, and conventional metal braces. To learn more, contact our office!