TAD
Also written as: TAD — Temporary Anchorage Device
Abbreviation for Temporary Anchorage Device, a miniature titanium implant used as a fixed anchorage point in orthodontic tooth movement.
Full Definition
A Temporary Anchorage Device (TAD) is a small titanium mini-screw or mini-implant placed in alveolar or basal bone to provide absolute or near-absolute skeletal anchorage during orthodontic treatment. TADs circumvent the need for patient compliance with headgear or other extra-oral appliances, and they enable tooth movements—such as molar intrusion, en-masse retraction, and vertical control—that were previously difficult to achieve. After the desired tooth movement is accomplished, the TAD is removed with minimal discomfort. Editors should expand 'TAD' on first use and use the plural 'TADs.' The term 'mini-screw' is often used interchangeably with TAD in the literature, though some authors distinguish between mini-screws, mini-implants, and mini-plates.
Usage
Usage note: Expand on first use. Plural: TADs. Distinguish from permanent dental implants in text.
In Context
- "Two TADs were placed in the maxillary posterior region to provide absolute anchorage during en-masse retraction." — Surgical and orthodontic case report
- "The article used 'TAD' without expansion on first mention; the editor added 'Temporary Anchorage Device (TAD)' at first occurrence." — Journal manuscript editing