How to fix an underbite: cost, options & what insurance covers
Underbite correction cost by treatment type
| Treatment | Best for | Duration | Cost range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal braces + rubber bands | Mild to moderate dental underbite | 18–36 months | $3,000–$7,000 |
| Invisalign Comprehensive | Mild dental underbite | 12–24 months | $3,000–$9,000 |
| Reverse-pull headgear (children) | Skeletal, children only | 12–18 months | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Chin cap (children) | Mild skeletal, children | 12–24 months | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Jaw surgery (orthognathic) | Severe skeletal underbite | 2–3 years total | $20,000–$40,000 |
Dental vs. skeletal underbite
A dental underbite is caused by the lower front teeth being angled too far forward or the upper front teeth angled too far backward. These can often be corrected with braces or aligners.
A skeletal underbite occurs when the lower jaw (mandible) is longer than the upper jaw, creating a protruding chin. For children, orthopedic appliances can redirect jaw growth. For adults, jaw surgery (mandibular setback or maxillary advancement) is typically required for significant corrections.
Can adults fix an underbite without surgery?
For mild dental underbites in adults, braces or Invisalign can often provide significant improvement. For skeletal underbites in adults — where the jaw position is the root cause — orthodontic treatment alone achieves only limited improvement. Surgery provides the most complete correction and is often covered partially by medical insurance when deemed functionally necessary.
Does insurance cover underbite correction?
Dental insurance covers orthodontic treatment (braces, aligners) at 50% up to a $1,000–$2,000 lifetime maximum. When surgery is medically necessary — due to chewing difficulty, speech problems, or sleep apnea — medical insurance may cover the surgical portion separately, reducing out-of-pocket costs significantly.