Patient Perceptions and Experiences of Temporary Anchorage Devices V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Patient Perceptions and Experiences of Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs): A Qualitative Study
IRAS ID
339998
Contact name
Gautham Sivamurthy
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The University of Dundee
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 5 days
Research summary
Titanium mini-screws or temporary anchorage devices (TADs) are increasingly used with orthodontic fixed braces to support tooth movement. Little is known about patients' experiences with TADs and how well they are tolerated by patients. Understanding patients' experiences of TADs will better allow orthodontists to address patient concerns and tailor treatment to improve patient experiences.
The aims of this project are to:
1.Identify patient experiences in relation to TADs prior to, during and after their use in orthodontic treatment using patient focus groups and in-depth one to one interviews
2. Create a validated questionnaire to evaluate patients’ experience of TADs
3. Evaluate whether the British Orthodontic Society (BOS) Leaflet on TADs needs to be revised and updated, to appropriately address patient concerns, and using “patient-friendly” terminology relating to TADs
Focus groups will involve suitable patients, grouped by age (under 18 and over 18 groups) who will then be subdivided into 3 further groups (Pre TAD placement, in treatment with TAD, post treatment with TAD). Select members will have in-depth, 1 to 1 interviews following their participation in a focus group. Focus groups and interviews will be voice recorded and patients asked to describe their experiences and attitudes towards TADs.
A questionnaire, used to capture patients’ experience of TADs, will be developed and validated by conducting a literature review; collecting information from PPI groups, orthodontic outpatients, expert and focus groups and by iteratively testing the questionnaire on subsequent focus groups and an expert group.
REC name
London - Queen Square Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/PR/0506
Date of REC Opinion
19 Jun 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion