Sometimes, your smile needs a little extra push in the right direction. If it does, Dr. Brent Erickson may suggest temporary anchorage devices (TADs). A TAD is a fixed oral appliance that helps move more difficult teeth into position and is only used if you need more intensive care. This innovative orthodontic technology is effective in aligning teeth with superior results by combining traditional orthodontics with implant technology. TADs are small titanium screws that are temporarily inserted into your bone between the roots of the teeth to enhance orthodontic anchorage. TADs may be used to overcome the limitations that patients can experience with headgear or holding arches, or to help carefully perform difficult tooth movements.