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.
When Are TADs Used 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.
Why would an orthodontist recommend a TAD?
A TAD gives your orthodontist a fixed point to push or pull against. It’s typically suggested for movements that are hard to achieve with braces or aligners alone, such as closing a large space, moving back teeth, or correcting certain bite problems. Many patients never need one.
How is a TAD placed?
The area is numbed first, then the small device is gently placed through the gum into the bone at our Mount Laurel office. Placement is a short visit, and most patients describe feeling pressure rather than pain. You can usually return to your normal day afterward.
How do I care for a TAD?
Keep the area clean by brushing gently around it with a soft toothbrush, and follow the rinse instructions we give you. Try not to touch or wiggle it with your tongue or fingers. If a TAD ever feels loose, call us so we can check it.
Can teens and adults both get TADs?
Yes. TADs are used for both teens and adults when the treatment plan calls for extra anchorage. Dr. Ellis or Dr. Lekht looks at your bone, gum health and the tooth movement planned before recommending one, and explains the alternatives if a TAD isn’t the right fit.
Does removing a TAD hurt?
Removal is usually quicker than placement. The device is simply unscrewed, often with only a numbing gel, and the small spot in the gum heals on its own within days.
Reviewed by Dr. Len Ellis, orthodontist. Last updated October 2026.
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 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.
Voorhees, NJ
Voorhees patients can plan a first visit on our orthodontist Voorhees NJ page.
TAD placement at Ellis Orthodontics is performed personally by Dr. Len Ellis or Dr. Simona Lekht, both orthodontic specialists, 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.