Premium Skeletal Anchorage for Orthodontics

Introduction

Anchorage is a cornerstone of controlled tooth movement in modern orthodontics. The Dentaurum TOMAS® Anchorage System offers clinicians a versatile, reliable, and streamlined solution for skeletal anchorage using mini‑pins (TADs). Designed for both active tooth movement and passive stabilization, TOMAS® helps reduce reliance on extraoral devices and provides more predictable biomechanics.

In this article, we’ll explore how TOMAS® works, its components, clinical applications, advantages, and tips for use.

What Is the TOMAS® Anchorage System?

TOMAS® (temporary orthodontic micro anchorage system) is Dentaurum’s skeletal anchorage solution using sterile mini‑pins that are temporarily placed in bone to serve as fixed anchorage points.

Key features:

• Uses mini‑pins (TADs) with diameters typically 1.6 mm and varying lengths depending on location and bone thickness.

• Two head types:
    • TOMAS®‑pin SD with a cross‑slot head (22 cross slot) to behave similarly to a bracket slot.
    • TOMAS®‑pin EP with a “mushroom” head, better suited for hooking elastic elements or other attachments.

• Self‑drilling thread design (in many cases, no pilot drilling needed) to simplify placement.

• A coordinated system of coupling components (abutments, connectors, instruments) to interface with orthodontic appliances.

TOMAS® aims to be a full anchorage system, not just isolated pins: the components are designed to work together for both direct and indirect anchorage.

Components of the TOMAS® System

A typical setup includes:

• TOMAS®‑pins (SD and EP versions, various lengths)

• Abutments & coupling elements for direct or indirect anchorage with wires or appliances

• Insertion and control instruments: torque drivers, drills, applicators, locator tools, punch/gingiva removers, trays, etc.

• Starter Sets / Kits that bundle the components necessary to begin using the system in clinical practice.

For example, the TOMAS® starter set may include pins, drills, drivers, locators, trays, and instructions.

Clinical Applications & Indications

The TOMAS® system supports many orthodontic movements that depend on stable anchorage:

• Distalization or mesialization of individual teeth

• Uprighting molars

• Intrusion of teeth (especially posterior or anterior)

• Space closure in Class I mechanics

• Use in sliding mechanics for Class II corrections

• Palatal expansion (in combination with RPE / MARPE designs)

• Indirect anchorage (i.e. stabilizing a segment, then using that as part of force application)

Because TOMAS® provides skeletal (bone‑based) anchorage, it can reduce or eliminate unwanted reciprocal movement of anchor teeth in many cases.

Advantages of TOMAS® Over Conventional Anchorage

1. Absolute anchorage potential
   Bone‑anchored pins offer anchorage independent of tooth units, which allows full force application without losing anchorage.

2. Flexible biomechanics
   The SD cross‑slot head allows both direct wire engagement and indirect anchorage options, giving clinicians flexibility in planning.

3. Simplified inventory
   Because TOMAS® uses a cross‑slot design and undercut features, fewer head types are needed versus multiple specialized designs.

4. Ease of clinical use
   Self‑drilling threads (in many cases), matched coupling parts, and coordinated instrumentation streamline the workflow and reduce complexity.

5. Sterile, high‑quality components
   Dentaurum supplies sterile mini screws and supports the system with training, handbooks, and clinical guidance.

6. Adaptable to palatal & buccal applications
   With the introduction of alternative head designs and coupling options, TOMAS® may be used both buccally and palatally.

7. Broad clinical acceptance & support
   TOMAS® has been available and refined over years, and Dentaurum offers training, support, and scientific backing.

   
   

Considerations & Best Practices for Clinicians

• Bone quality & anatomical assessment
  Use CBCT or radiographic imaging to assess bone thickness, cortical density, and safe insertion sites, particularly in palate or narrow arch segments.

• Pin length and diameter selection
  Choose length and head type (SD or EP) appropriate for the bone depth and the force direction.

• Insertion protocol
  While many TOMAS® pins are self‑drilling, in some cortical or thick bone zones a pilot perforation is recommended.

• Torque control
  Use the supplied torque driver and adhere to recommended torque limits to avoid root contact or screw fracture.

• Soft tissue management
  Maintain healthy peri‑implant mucosa. Use the gingiva punch/remover instruments provided, and keep the head region free of excessive irritation.

• Loading strategy
  Direct or indirect loading can often begin immediately, depending on insertion stability and bone quality.

• Monitoring & hygiene
  Regular follow-up to check for inflammation, mobility, or hygiene issues is critical during the treatment period.

• Removal
  Removal is relatively simple and noninvasive once the anchorage role is complete; bone remodeling fills the micro‑site afterward.

Case Example: Palatal Expansion with TOMAS® (MARPE Hybrid Design)

One example of TOMAS® in action is in mini‑screw assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE). In one case, dental laboratories using the TOMAS® system integrated four EP-type TOMAS® TADs into a palatal expander appliance—two anterior and two posterior points—anchoring the expansion device to skeletal structures rather than purely dental ones.

This hybrid skeletal-dental anchorage helps reduce dental side effects like tipping, enhances skeletal expansion even in partially matured sutures, and improves the stability of expansion outcomes.

Laboratories crafting such appliances often use matched eyelets, coupling parts, and TOMAS® RPE tools to ensure precision and strength.

Learn more about our TADs: MACONO TADs

More about TOMAS® Anchorage System by Dentaurum: https://www.dentaurum.de/lp/eng/tomas.aspx