← All explanationsOrthodontic mini-implants

Why are small screws used with braces?

Orthodontic mini-implants are small temporary anchorage screws placed in bone. They provide support for selected tooth movements and are removed when no longer needed. They do not replace missing teeth.

For training & practice ↓
SMILE meets DESIGN
Illustrative metal model of a slender orthodontic anchorage screw with a small attachment head.AI-generated
Example temporary anchorage screw; not an implant for a dental crown.
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An anchorage point

A connection between the screw and appliance can support planned forces. Position and loading are carefully planned.

02 / 03

A minor procedure

Placement is usually performed under local anaesthesia. Nearby roots and other structures need to be considered.

03 / 03

Care and review

Small screws can loosen or become inflamed. Report pain, loosening or changes to the treating team.

Read the full explanation
  1. An anchorage point

    A connection between the screw and appliance can support planned forces. Position and loading are carefully planned.

  2. A minor procedure

    Placement is usually performed under local anaesthesia. Nearby roots and other structures need to be considered.

  3. Care and review

    Small screws can loosen or become inflamed. Report pain, loosening or changes to the treating team.

Notes on the teaching images
  • Example temporary anchorage screw; not an implant for a dental crown.
  • Anatomical reference: the position of tooth roots must be considered.
  • Symbolic image: cleaning and checks also matter around an anchorage screw.

At a glance

Purpose?

Anchorage during tooth movement.

Permanent?

For the planned treatment phase.

If loose?

Contact the treating team; do not adjust it yourself.

Knowledge in motion

Explained in 36 seconds.

Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.

Orthodontic mini-implants: short film

Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.

Often confused

Anchorage rather than tooth replacement

Its purpose differs from an implant supporting a crown or denture.

Quick answers
Does the screw stay for life?

Usually not. It is intended as temporary anchorage.

Can I pull on it myself?

No. Do not add or alter elastics or tighten the screw yourself.

Is it risk-free?

No. Loosening, soft-tissue irritation and injury to neighbouring structures are possible.

At the practice

For a personal discussion

Editorially suggested question to discuss with Dr Niusha Barahmand Pour:

Why is additional anchorage needed and who will supervise it?

A temporary anchorage screw is planned? Discuss its purpose, alternatives and care with the treating team.

Discuss the treatment planAppointment selection at Doctolib
Meet Dr. Niusha Barahmand Pour ↗
Learning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
TAD
Temporary anchorage device.
Anchorage
Support for a planned force.
Mucosa
Soft tissue surrounding the entry site.

Make the distinction

Its purpose differs from an implant supporting a crown or denture.

Knowledge questionWhat does an orthodontic mini-implant normally support?

For learning, not for assessing personal symptoms. Your answer is not stored or sent.

  1. A planned orthodontic force.
  2. Always a replacement tooth.
  3. A permanent complete denture.
View answer

A planned orthodontic force.

It is a temporary anchorage point.

Sources and context

Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.