Hey there! Dr. Babak here from Los Angeles. Today, I’m talking about something I see in my practice all the time – how to smile confidently with an underbite.
Living in image-conscious LA, I’ve helped countless patients near Rodeo Drive and Silver Lake transform not just their smiles, but their confidence.
Understanding Your Underbite
An underbite occurs when your lower teeth and jaw protrude in front of your upper teeth. According to the American Journal of Orthodontics, approximately 5-10% of the population has some degree of underbite, with varying levels of severity.
The impact? Beyond potential functional issues, many of my patients initially feel self-conscious about smiling in photos or during social interactions.
Immediate Tips for Smiling Confidently with an Underbite
Before we talk treatments, here are my top tips for taking great photos and feeling confident right now:
The “Soft Smile” Technique
I teach this to celebrities and everyday patients alike:
- Relax your jaw slightly
- Focus on lifting the corners of your mouth
- Keep lips gently together or slightly parted
- Practice in the mirror until it feels natural
Strategic Head Positioning
- Tilt your chin slightly downward (about 15 degrees)
- Turn your head at a slight angle to the camera
- This minimizes the appearance of jaw protrusion
Lighting and Angles
- Avoid harsh downward lighting that creates shadows
- Soft, diffused light from slightly above is most flattering
- When possible, photos taken at eye level or slightly above minimize underbite appearance
Confidence-Building Exercises for Daily Life
Beyond the camera, here’s how to feel more comfortable in everyday interactions:
| Exercise | Benefit | Daily Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Mirror affirmations | Psychological comfort | 2-3 minutes morning and night |
| Jaw relaxation | Reduces tension and prominence | 5-10 minutes before social events |
| Speech practice | Improves articulation | 5 minutes daily |
Cosmetic Solutions for Underbites in Los Angeles 2025
As a cosmetic dentist in LA, I offer several solutions that can dramatically transform your smile:
Invisalign for Underbite Correction
For mild to moderate underbites, Invisalign can work wonders. The process:
- Custom clear aligners gradually shift your teeth
- Treatment typically takes 12-24 months
- Average cost in Los Angeles: $4,500-$7,000
According to recent clinical studies, Invisalign successfully treats approximately 65% of underbite cases, making it a viable option for many patients.
Veneers and Cosmetic Bonding
For immediate visual improvements:
- Porcelain veneers on upper teeth can create the illusion of proper alignment
- Cosmetic bonding can reshape teeth for better visual harmony
- Results are instant with minimal recovery time
Surgical Options for Severe Cases
When underbites significantly affect function and appearance:
- Orthognathic surgery repositions the jaw
- Often combined with braces for optimal results
- Recovery typically takes 6-12 weeks
- Investment ranges from $20,000-$40,000 in Los Angeles
The Psychological Impact of Addressing Your Underbite
The transformation goes beyond physical changes. A 2023 study in the Journal of Aesthetic Dentistry found that underbite correction led to:
- 78% increase in smiling frequency
- 82% improvement in social confidence
- 64% reduction in anxiety about appearance
Choosing the Right Approach for You
Consider these factors when deciding how to address your underbite:
- Severity of your underbite
- Budget considerations
- Timeline needs
- Functional issues vs. purely cosmetic concerns
Frequently Asked Questions About Underbites
Can an underbite correct itself?
In children under 10, some minor underbites may improve with growth guidance therapy. For adults, professional intervention is typically needed for improvement.
Does insurance cover underbite treatment?
When medically necessary (affecting speech, chewing, or causing pain), many insurance plans cover 25-50% of treatment costs. Our office can help with insurance verification.
How long does underbite treatment take?
- Non-surgical options: 12-24 months on average
- Surgical approaches: 18-36 months including pre/post-operative orthodontics
- Cosmetic camouflage: As little as 2-3 visits
Are there any quick fixes for special events?
For upcoming weddings or important events, we offer “smile design previews” where you can test-drive your potential new smile before committing to treatment.
Why Choose Our Los Angeles Practice for Underbite Treatment
Serving patients from Downtown LA to Pacific Palisades, our practice offers:
- Comprehensive underbite assessment using 3D imaging
- Multiple treatment options under one roof
- Same-day consultations near the Hollywood Bowl
- Financing options starting at $199/month
- Evening and weekend appointments
Start Your Confidence Journey Today
Remember, many of Hollywood’s biggest stars have worked with specialists like myself to address underbites and other dental concerns.
The first step is a confidential consultation to explore your options.
Whether you’re preparing for auditions at Paramount Studios or simply want to feel more confident in your daily life, learning to smile confidently with an underbite is absolutely achievable.
Your underbite doesn’t define you, but addressing it might just transform how you present yourself to the world.
Sources:
- American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics: https://www.ajodo.org
- Journal of Aesthetic Dentistry: https://www.jad.org
- International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: https://www.ijoms.com
- American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons: https://www.aaoms.org
- Journal of Clinical Orthodontics: https://www.jco-online.com
Dr. Babak. If you want a second opinion, book online at: https://ladentalexperts.setmore.com