Have TADs Changed the Role of the Orthodontist in the Rehabilitation of the Degenerated Dentition?

Abstract

The clinical routine has been undergoing continuous changes since it was defined by Angle[1]. Looking into the literature most changes occur following the presentation of a new approach. This was the case with the introduction of the skeletal anchorage by Creekmore [2] and Eklund. A hypothesis can be created based on single observations and research can be started. The present paper is a “story of the development of the skeletal anchorage and its usefulness” not only as an alternative to other anchorage approaches but when other types of anchorage were not available. Moreover, orthodontic temporary anchorage devices (TADs) can be used both to maintain and to build bone. This paper may not have the typical structure of a scientific paper, but gives a realistic image of how progress occur and how casual observations can lead to the establishment of a research protocol and the results of an animal study can lead to a new clinical procedure.