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Mini screw or TAD information

15
Aug

Mini screw or TAD information

Friday, August 15, 2025

🦷 What Are Mini Screws in Orthodontics? And Should You Be Worried?

Let’s dive into the world of mini screws and answer some of the most common questions patients ask.

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🤔 First, What Exactly Are Mini Screws?

Mini screws are tiny titanium screws that orthodontists temporarily place in your jawbone to serve as anchors. They help move your teeth more efficiently, in certain cases where traditional braces or aligners alone wouldn’t be effective.

Think of them as small “handles” placed in the bone to pull teeth in the right direction, without relying on other teeth for support.

 

🦷 Why Are They Used?

Orthodontists use TADs when they need absolute anchorage, meaning they want to move certain teeth without affecting others.

Common situations include:

Closing large gaps between teeth

Correcting open bites or deep bites

 

🛠️ How Are Mini Screws Placed?

The placement process is surprisingly quick and simple:

The orthodontist numbs the area

The screw is gently twisted into place

Most patients say the procedure is easier than getting a filling, minimal discomfort and no stitches required.

🗨️ Would you be surprised to know that placing a TAD often takes less than 10 minutes?

 

😖 Does It Hurt?

Pain is usually mild. You might feel some pressure or soreness for a day or two, but over-the-counter pain relief usually handles it. Most people are pleasantly surprised by how manageable it is.

 

⌛ How Long Do They Stay In?

Mini screws are temporary, they’re removed once they’ve done their job, usually a few months to a year. The removal is even simpler than the placement: a quick twist, and they’re out.

 

🧼 How Do You Take Care of Them?

Keeping the area clean is key:

Brush gently around the screw

Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse (your orthodontist will recommend one)

Avoid touching or playing with it

A little extra hygiene goes a long way in preventing irritation or infection.

Please do not use an electirc toothbrush with a TAD

 

💬 FAQs About Mini Screws

Q: Can they come loose?
A: Occasionally, yes. But your orthodontist can quickly replace or reposition them if needed.

Q: Will I feel them all the time?
A: After the first few days, most patients barely notice them.

Q: Do they work for everyone?
A: Not always. Some patients may not have enough bone or may have conditions that affect healing.

 

✨ The Takeaway

Mini screws may sound intimidating, but they’re safe, effective, and often the best way to speed up and enhance orthodontic treatment. If your orthodontist suggests them, it’s usually because they’ll make your treatment more predictable and successful.

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✅ Final Thoughts

Orthodontics today is all about precision and personalization. Mini screws are just one of many tools used to craft the perfect smile when clinically nessessary.

 

 

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Posted on:

Friday, August 15, 2025

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Aligned orthodontics