TAD devices — short for Temporary Anchorage Devices — are small, temporary mini-screws that give Dr. Len Ellis and Dr. Simona Lekht a fixed, stable anchor point for moving teeth in cases where braces or aligners alone need a little extra help. Think of a TAD as scaffolding: it holds steady while other teeth move around it, which makes certain complex tooth movements possible that wouldn’t be otherwise.
When we place TAD devices in Mount Laurel, NJ, they go directly into the gum and underlying bone at our Mount Laurel office, often using laser therapy to create a precise, gentle opening first. Because they’re temporary, TADs are removed once they’ve done their job — they aren’t a permanent part of your smile.
If Dr. Ellis or Dr. Lekht recommends a TAD as part of your treatment plan, it’s because your specific case needs that extra anchor point to reach the result you’re after — not a default part of every plan.
Here’s how TAD treatment works at our Mount Laurel office:
- 1
Treatment plan evaluation
Dr. Ellis or Dr. Lekht determines whether your case needs the extra anchorage a TAD provides.
- 2
Precise placement
The TAD is placed at our Mount Laurel office, often supported by laser therapy for a more comfortable procedure.
- 3
Active treatment
The TAD anchors the specific tooth movement your plan calls for while your braces or aligners do the rest of the work.
- 4
Removal
Once its job is done, the TAD is removed — a quick, straightforward procedure.
TADs for Complex Tooth Movement
Mini implant orthodontic anchorage
TADs make certain tooth movements possible that would be difficult or impossible with braces or aligners alone.
Temporary by design
They do their job and come out — no permanent hardware left behind.
Precisely placed
Paired with laser therapy for a more comfortable, precise placement experience.
TAD FAQs
What is a TAD device?
A Temporary Anchorage Device — a small, temporary mini-screw that gives your orthodontist a stable anchor point for specific tooth movements.
Does getting a TAD hurt?
Most patients tolerate placement well, especially when it’s supported by laser therapy for a more precise, comfortable procedure.
Will I need a TAD as part of my treatment?
Not every patient does — TADs are recommended only when your specific case benefits from the extra anchorage.
Is a TAD permanent?
No — it’s removed once it’s served its purpose in your treatment plan.
How long does a TAD stay in place?
It varies by case and treatment plan; Dr. Ellis or Dr. Lekht will explain the expected timeline for your specific situation.
Dr. Ellis and Dr. Lekht are both active members of the American Association of Orthodontists, the specialty organization that sets professional standards for orthodontic care, including advanced anchorage techniques like TADs.
Your Temporary Anchorage Devices Orthodontist in South Jersey
Searching for “orthodontic mini-screws near me”? TAD placement in Mount Laurel, NJ is done in our own office by our board-certified orthodontists. Patients visit from these nearby towns:
Marlton, NJ
Marlton patients can ask about TADs with our orthodontist Marlton NJ team.
Moorestown, NJ
Moorestown patients are a short drive away. Visit our orthodontist Moorestown NJ page.
Medford, NJ
Medford patients can learn more on our orthodontist Medford NJ page.
Cherry Hill, NJ
Cherry Hill patients can find details on our orthodontist Cherry Hill NJ page.
TAD placement at Ellis Orthodontics is performed personally by Dr. Len Ellis or Dr. Simona Lekht, both board-certified orthodontists, as one tool among many in building your complete treatment plan.
Have a complex case that might need extra anchorage?
Find out at a free consultation.