TADs AND MINISCREWS

In Cupertino, Milpitas, and Fremont, CA

A TAD is a small titanium miniscrew placed in the mouth to help move teeth more efficiently during orthodontic treatment. It acts like a stable anchor, allowing for precise tooth movement without relying on other teeth. TADs are safe, temporary, and often make treatment faster and more effective.

How are they placed?

TADs are placed quickly and comfortably right in the office. After numbing the area with a little local anesthetic, Dr. Luke gently inserts the tiny screw into the gums. The whole process takes just a few minutes and involves little to no discomfort.

  • Quick and minimally invasive
  • Done under local anesthesia
  • Takes just a few minutes in the office
  • Little to no discomfort during or after

Indications and Uses

  • Deep Bite: TADs help reduce the amount your front teeth overlap by gently pushing them upward.
  • Gummy Smile: If too much of your gums show when you smile, TADs can help move your upper teeth up to create a more balanced smile.
  • Open Bite: When your front teeth don’t touch when you bite down, TADs can help close the gap by moving your back teeth upward.
  • Uneven Midline: If your smile looks off-center, TADs help shift your teeth into better alignment without moving things we don’t want to touch.
  • Closing Gaps After Extractions: TADs help close spaces left by pulled teeth without accidentally moving your back teeth forward.
  • Moving Back Teeth Backwards (Distalization): If your back teeth need to shift back, TADs give us the anchorage to do it—no headgear needed.
When Are TADs Recommended?

TADs are recommended when certain tooth movements need more support than braces or aligners alone can provide. They are often used to move teeth more precisely, close spaces without relying on surrounding teeth, correct challenging bite issues, or provide an alternative to more complex surgical procedures. By acting as a stable anchor, TADs make it possible to achieve results that would otherwise be difficult or take longer with traditional methods alone.

Are TADs Right for You?

Not everyone will need a TAD, but if your treatment plan would benefit from one, Dr. Luke will explain how it can support your smile transformation. Every decision is made with your goals, comfort, and best long-term outcome in mind.

When Are TADs Removed?

Once a TAD has done its job, Dr. Luke simply removes it—no stitches, no downtime. The removal process is quick, painless, and done right in the office. The area typically heals on its own within a few days.

Questions about Treatment?

While not every orthodontic case requires TADs, they can make a big difference for certain types of tooth movement—especially in more complex cases. With proper care and routine monitoring, they can significantly enhance treatment outcomes.