Bone Anchor Plates/Devices

What are anchorage devices?

Bone anchors, also known as temporary anchorage devices, are a fundamental part of orthodontic treatment, planning and subsequent treatment delivery.  These anchorage devices are commonly used to facilitate movement of teeth within the upper and/or lower jaws – when a large amount of tooth movement is required, or dental anchorage is insufficient because of absent teeth or periodontal loss (loss of bone around the teeth).

These devices are referred to by an array of names including: mini-plates, micro-implants, micro-screw implants, mini-screws or temporary anchorage devices (TADs).

Where are the devices placed

  • In the cheekbone
  • In the nasal bones of the upper jaw
  • In the canine (teeth next to your four front teeth) region of the lower jaw
  • In the molar (wisdom teeth) region of the lower jaw

What does the surgery involve

Your orthodontist has referred you to a specialist oral and maxillofacial surgeon to perform this procedure.

The anchorage devices are generally placed with intravenous sedation or general anesthetic.

What to expect following surgery

Following surgery, you will need to gently rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouth wash for 3-4 days and clean around the bone plates with a cotton swab.  It is important that you do not irritate the bone anchors with your tongue or fingers.

Your surgeon will allow a 3-4 week healing period following surgery before undertaking any further treatment.