Introducing our new treatment method: temporary anchorage devices or mini-implants

A recent development in orthodontist treatment, these small temporary implants can control tooth movement. Previously, orthodontists had to extract several teeth to achieve the same degree of movement that can now be accomplished by the temporary placement of these mini-implants. These mini-implants facilitate more difficult tooth adjustments. The implants are small screws that are fixed into the bone and serve as ‘anchors’. In this article we describe the different types of mini-implants.

Beneslider

We place the beneslider in the patient’s upper jaw, thus allowing the molars to move backwards.

The beneslider consists of 2 small screws which are placed in the bone. A wire and spring connector is placed between the screws.

In the past, we had to resort to orthodontic headgear or extractions to carry out this treatment. The beneslider facilitates the movement of the teeth without the patient having to take any action. For example, by using this device we no longer have to insist that the patient wears orthodontic headgear, we are less dependent on patient upkeep of their orthodontic devices and we can resort to fewer extractions.

Temporary anchorage devices in combination with lingual braces

With lingual braces, the small screws can be used directly, without the need for the top connector. This treatment enables the entire arch of the teeth to be moved backwards in one go. This may be necessary if, for example, the patient suffers from overbite and the upper teeth need to be moved backwards.

Bollard anchor

A Bollard anchor may be used if molars in the lower jaw need to be moved forward, for example if molars are missing. The Bollard anchor is placed and later also removed by an oral surgeon.