Exposure of Impacted Teeth in Norwalk, CT
Coordinated care for teeth that need help coming in.
Impacted canines and other unerupted teeth are planned together by orthodontist Dr. May Kim and board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Sung Han.
Serving families in Norwalk and surrounding Fairfield County communities.
When a Tooth Does Not Come in on Its Own
An impacted tooth stays below the gum or bone instead of erupting into place. After wisdom teeth, the upper canines are the teeth most often affected. Some teeth need only time. Others need help from both an orthodontist and an oral surgeon, working from the same plan.
Orthodontics and Oral Surgery, Coordinated
Each doctor has a clear role, and the two roles fit together step by step.
Dr. May Kim, Orthodontist
Dr. Kim evaluates the bite and the space available, creates room for the tooth and guides it into position once it is exposed.
Meet Dr. Kim →Dr. Sung Han, Oral Surgeon
Dr. Han surgically exposes the tooth when necessary and, when appropriate, bonds a small attachment so it can be guided into place.
Meet Dr. Han →Because both doctors are part of the same team, the timing of the surgical and orthodontic steps can be planned together instead of coordinated between separate offices. Surgical Orthodontics covers the other situations where both specialists work together.
Common Situations
Most cases fall into one of two situations. In the first, the tooth can be uncovered and guided into place. In the second, it cannot be guided, and the plan shifts to replacing it.
Impacted Canines and Unerupted Teeth
Canines and other permanent teeth that are blocked, delayed or positioned so they cannot come in on their own. Dr. Han uncovers the tooth and, when appropriate, bonds a small attachment, and Dr. Kim then guides it down into place.
Teeth That Cannot Be Guided
When a tooth cannot be moved into place, removal and the options for replacing it are discussed, including a dental implant when appropriate.
Tooth Extractions →How Care Is Usually Coordinated
Evaluation
Dr. Kim and Dr. Han review the tooth position with appropriate imaging, including 3D Imaging when clinically indicated.
Making Space
When needed, orthodontic treatment creates room for the tooth.
Exposure and Bonding
Dr. Han uncovers the tooth and, when appropriate, bonds an attachment to it.
Guided Eruption
Dr. Kim gradually guides the tooth into position as part of orthodontic treatment.
Impacted Teeth FAQ
It is often found on X-rays or at an orthodontic evaluation, for example when a baby tooth stays in place long after it would usually fall out. An evaluation around age 7 can help spot eruption problems early.
No. Some teeth come in on their own once space is made, and some are simply monitored. Treatment depends on the tooth’s position and the patient’s age.
Yes. Local anesthesia is used, and sedation may be considered depending on the case and the patient. Options are discussed at the consultation.
Not every patient does. When orthodontic and surgical care are both needed, Dr. Kim and Dr. Han plan it together.
Concerned About a Tooth That Has Not Come In?
Book an evaluation and we will talk through the next step.