miniimplants

Miniimplants, also known as temporary anchorage devices (TADs) or miniscrews, are small, screw-like devices used in orthodontics to aid in tooth movement. They are typically made of titanium and are inserted into the bone of the jaw, usually in the spaces between teeth or in the palate. Their primary function is to provide a stable anchor point from which orthodontic forces can be applied to move teeth more efficiently and precisely.

Unlike conventional braces which rely on the teeth themselves for anchorage, miniimplants offer a way to circumvent the inherent limitations of tooth-to-tooth anchorage. This allows orthodontists to achieve complex tooth movements that might otherwise be difficult or impossible, such as retracting severely protruded teeth without causing unwanted tipping of other teeth, or intruding or extruding teeth. They can also be used to open or close spaces between teeth more predictably.

The placement of a miniimplant is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia. Once in place, orthodontic wires or elastics are attached to the miniimplant to facilitate the desired tooth movement. After the treatment is complete, the miniimplants are typically removed easily and quickly, leaving behind a small, often unnoticeable mark. The use of miniimplants has significantly expanded the possibilities in orthodontic treatment planning, offering solutions for a wider range of malocclusions.