How to fix an overbite: cost, options & what insurance covers
What does overbite correction cost?
The cost of fixing an overbite depends primarily on severity and treatment type. Here's a complete breakdown of every option available in 2026:
| Treatment | Best for | Duration | Cost range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal braces | Mild to moderate overbite | 12–24 months | $3,000–$7,000 |
| Ceramic braces | Mild to moderate, less visible | 12–24 months | $4,000–$8,000 |
| Invisalign (Comprehensive) | Mild to moderate | 12–18 months | $3,000–$9,000 |
| Retainer only | Very mild / post-treatment | Ongoing | $100–$750 |
| Herbst appliance | Growing children, skeletal | 12 months | $2,000–$4,500 |
| Jaw surgery (orthognathic) | Severe / skeletal overbite | 2–3 years total | $20,000–$40,000 |
Prices above reflect 2026 US national averages. Costs vary by geographic region — orthodontists in major metro areas typically charge 20–40% more than rural providers.
Dental vs. skeletal overbite: why it matters for cost
Before pricing treatment, your orthodontist will classify your overbite as dental or skeletal. This distinction has a major impact on cost.
Dental overbite
A dental overbite is caused by the position of the teeth — the upper front teeth are pushed too far forward. This is the more common type and is treatable with braces or clear aligners alone. Costs typically fall in the $3,000–$9,000 range.
Skeletal overbite
A skeletal overbite is caused by jaw bone position — the upper jaw protrudes further than the lower jaw. Mild skeletal overbites can sometimes be managed with orthodontics, but severe cases require jaw surgery. Treatment costs can reach $40,000 when surgery is involved.
Can Invisalign fix an overbite?
Yes — Invisalign's Comprehensive plan is designed to treat overbites using precision bite ramps built into the aligners. It works well for mild to moderate dental overbites and costs $3,000–$9,000 depending on case complexity.
Invisalign is not suitable for skeletal overbites or cases requiring jaw surgery. Your orthodontist will take X-rays and a 3D scan during the consultation to determine if you're a candidate.
How to fix an overbite naturally
There is no clinically proven way to fix an overbite "naturally" without professional treatment. However, some habits can be addressed at home to prevent an overbite from worsening:
For children: Stopping thumb-sucking and pacifier use before age 3, avoiding prolonged bottle feeding, and encouraging nasal breathing can help reduce risk. These are preventive measures — not treatments for an existing overbite.
For adults: Myofunctional therapy (tongue and facial muscle exercises) is sometimes used as an adjunct to orthodontic treatment, but cannot correct an overbite on its own. Always consult a licensed orthodontist before pursuing any non-clinical approach.
Does insurance cover overbite correction?
Coverage depends on your plan type and the severity of your overbite:
| Plan type | Typical coverage | Lifetime max |
|---|---|---|
| Dental insurance (orthodontic rider) | 50% of orthodontic costs | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Dental HMO | Flat discount, varies by plan | $500–$1,500 |
| Medical insurance (surgical cases) | 60–80% after deductible | Per policy limit |
| No insurance | Payment plans often available | $0 from insurer |
Important: If your overbite causes documented functional problems — difficulty chewing, TMJ pain, sleep apnea — your medical insurer may classify jaw surgery as medically necessary and cover a significant portion under your medical benefit, not dental.