Houston, TX Mini-Implant Assisted (MIA) Orthodontics
At Mia Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer Mini-Implant Assisted (MIA) Orthodontics, an advanced treatment option for complex tooth movements. Located in Houston, TX, our clinic uses tiny, biocompatible anchors—known as mini-implants or temporary anchorage devices (TADs)—to enhance precision, reduce treatment time, and expand the scope of what’s possible in modern orthodontics. Under the expert care of Dr. Alireza Hourfar, patients receive fast, accurate results with minimal discomfort and maximum care.
What Are Mini-Implants?
Mini-implants, also called TADs, are small titanium screws gently placed into the jaw or palate during treatment. Unlike traditional orthodontic methods that rely on shifting teeth around each other, mini-implants provide a fixed anchor point. This allows us to apply targeted force directly to the teeth we want to move—without unwanted movement elsewhere in the smile.
Installed quickly under local anesthesia in our office, mini-implants work harmoniously with your braces or aligners to tackle cases that typically require more complex solutions.
Why Choose MIA Orthodontics?
MIA Orthodontics offers a range of benefits over traditional methods:
- Enhanced precision — Apply force exactly where needed, reducing side movements
- Efficiency boost — Many patients complete their treatment faster
- Complex movement possible — Ideal for molar intrusion, rotation, and midline issues
- Less reliance on headgear or bulky appliances
- Minimal additional discomfort — Similar to receiving a filling in the dental chair
This innovative method blends seamlessly with our high-tech, digitally driven treatment planning—providing focused results and fewer compromises.
Common Uses of Mini-Implants
Mini-implants unlock solutions for challenging orthodontic needs:
- Molar intrusion — Correcting over-erupted molars and leveling bite planes
- Space closure with anchorage — Great for areas missing teeth or with long-term gaps
- Segmental intrusion — Adjusting gummy smiles with precise control
- Moving midline — Shifting centerline misalignments efficiently
- Asymmetry corrections — Symmetrically adjusting teeth where needed
At Mia Orthodontics, we develop a structured MIA treatment plan customized to your orthodontic goals.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Mini-implant assisted orthodontics benefits anyone with:
- Deep bites caused by over-eruption of molars
- Gummy smiles or vertical asymmetry
- Space requiring controlled closure
- Tooth midline that needs repositioning
- Need for movement beyond what aligners or braces can achieve alone
Good candidates should have healthy periodontal conditions and be willing to commit to short-term mini-implant care.
The Treatment Process
- Consultation and 3D imaging — We evaluate your teeth, jaw, and bone with precision technology.
- Customized planning — Using digital tools, Dr. Hourfar maps the ideal placement for mini-implants.
- Mini-implant placement — Quick, in-office procedure under local anesthesia—comfortable and efficient.
- Active orthodontic phase — Mini-implants support targeted tooth movement alongside braces or aligners.
- Removal and retention — The tiny anchor is removed painlessly once no longer needed; treatment is finalized with a retainer.
Because mini-implants are placed directly where support is needed, many patients see improved results in months—not years.
Treatment Benefits
- Pinpoint accuracy — Avoids unwanted shifting typical of traditional methods
- Shortened treatment time — Greater control speeds up your journey to a perfect smile
- More comfortable orthodontics — No bulky or external devices
- Broader treatment options — Expand “realistic” solutions for complex cases
- Seamless patient experience — Mini-implants are small, low profile, and discreet
Is MIA Right for You?
Mini-implant orthodontics may be ideal if you have:
- A gummy smile or uneven bite
- Crowding requiring extraction-level precision
- Bite plane asymmetry
- Midline or spacing that traditional braces can’t fully correct
In your free consultation, we’ll explore whether MIA is the optimal path for your unique smile needs.
Why Choose Mia Orthodontics?
At Mia Orthodontics, innovation meets care:
- Expert-led care — Board-certified orthodontist Dr. Hourfar is trained in MIA techniques
- Full digital workflow — Predictable planning with 3D tools and scans
- Personalized comfort — Mini-implants are placed in-office and removed when done
- Convenient location — Near Upper Kirby with ample parking
- Transparent pricing — Family-friendly and payment-plan inclusive
We’re committed to delivering advanced orthodontic solutions and outstanding patient experiences.