Tandverankering

Tandverankering, also known as dental anchorage, is a fundamental concept in orthodontics that refers to the resistance to unwanted tooth movement. It is the principle that allows orthodontists to move certain teeth in a desired direction by using other teeth or structures as a stable base. Without proper anchorage, any attempt to move one tooth would likely result in the simultaneous movement of all teeth involved, rendering the treatment ineffective.

Anchorage can be categorized into several types. Intraoral anchorage refers to the use of teeth within the mouth. This can be further divided into simple anchorage, where a single tooth resists movement; stationary anchorage, where a group of teeth resists movement; and reciprocal anchorage, where two units move towards each other. Extraoral anchorage utilizes devices placed outside the mouth, such as headgear, to provide a more powerful and stable source of resistance. More recently, temporary anchorage devices (TADs), also known as mini-implants or TADs, have become increasingly popular. These are small titanium screws temporarily placed into the bone, offering a highly stable and versatile source of absolute anchorage, allowing for precise tooth movement without relying on adjacent teeth.

The strategic planning of anchorage is crucial for successful orthodontic treatment. Orthodontists carefully assess the needs of each patient and select the most appropriate type of anchorage to achieve the desired outcome, whether it be closing spaces, correcting bite discrepancies, or aligning teeth. The management of anchorage influences the efficiency and predictability of orthodontic movements.