The Use and Application of Temporary Anchorage Devices in Orthodontic Treatment: A Review

Abstract

Anchorage control plays an important role in orthodontic treatment. Tooth movement, as seen during orthodontic treatment is  made possible with good and adequate anchorage to allow for tooth movement in the desired direction. The success of orthodontic treatment hinges on the anchorage protocol planned for any particular case.

Over the years, anchorage has been sought with the use of conventional methods, ranging from the use of intraoral structures (teeth) to the use of extraoral devices such as headgear, which require full patient cooperation for effectiveness.

These methods are limited in that it is often difficult to achieve results that are commensurate with the ideal goals of treatment. With the introduction of implants in the form of temporary anchorage devices (TADS), absolute and compliance-free intraoral anchorage has been provided, taking care of the possible problem of anchorage in orthodontic treatment. This is a review article that seeks to describe the current use and application of TADS in the contemporary management of orthodontic patients.