American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam

Adolescents tend to exhibit higher failure rates of Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) compared to adults due to several physiological and behavioral factors. One significant reason is the difference in bone quality and maturity between adolescents and adults. Adolescents typically have less dense bone and a more active remodeling process, which can impact the stability of TADs. Additionally, the growth spurts and associated biological changes during adolescence can affect the placement and long-term success of these devices.

Furthermore, adolescents may have more difficulty following post-operative instructions and maintaining oral hygiene, which are crucial for the success of TADs. If the area surrounding the TADs remains compromised due to inadequate hygiene, this can lead to inflammation and loss of osseointegration, increasing the likelihood of failure.

In contrast, adults generally have more stable bone conditions and a better understanding of post-operative care, contributing to lower failure rates. Therefore, the increased failure rates in adolescents compared to adults underscore the importance of considering patient age and biological constraints when utilizing TADs in orthodontic treatment.