Table of contents

• Understanding Underbite (Class III Malocclusion)
• Medical Procedures for Underbite Correction
• Best Clinics in Korea for Underbite
• The Patient Journey for Underbite Correction in South Korea
• Costs Associated with Underbite Correction in South Korea and International Comparison
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes
• Conclusions
• References

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An underbite, also known as Class III malocclusion, is a dental issue where the lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth, resulting in misalignment. Although not as common as other bite problems, underbites can seriously affect oral function, facial appearance, and overall self-esteem. Treatments typically involve orthodontic options like braces and specialized appliances, while severe cases may require orthognathic (jaw) surgery. Early intervention—especially in childhood—can reduce the need for future surgical procedures.

South Korea has become a top destination for medical tourism, particularly for dental and jaw correction. With high-quality facilities, experienced specialists, advanced technology, and competitive pricing, South Korea offers a comprehensive experience for patients worldwide. Costs are often lower than in the U.S., and many clinics provide all-in-one packages with support in multiple languages. Patient feedback strongly highlights improvements in chewing, speech, appearance, and confidence, further boosted by top-notch logistical and communication support.

Understanding Underbite (Class III Malocclusion)

Definition and Common Pseudonyms

An underbite is a specific kind of malocclusion characterized by the lower teeth overlapping the upper teeth when biting down. Severity can range from minimal to severe, with the lower jaw clearly protruding beyond the upper jaw. Underbites are the least common form of malocclusion.

Patients may encounter various clinical terms referring to underbite:

Table 1: Common Pseudonyms for Underbite

Term	Description
Underbite	Lower teeth protrude past upper teeth when biting
Anterior Crossbite	Front lower teeth bite in front of upper teeth
Class III Malocclusion	Formal orthodontic classification for lower molars positioned too forward
Reverse-bite	Colloquial term for the inverted relationship of the bite
Mandibular Prognathism	Medical term for an excessively large or protrusive lower jaw

Causes of Underbite

Most underbites are inherited, with a strong genetic link seen in affected families. Other contributing factors include jaw injury, oral tumors, childhood habits like thumb sucking, overcrowded teeth, or ill-fitting dental work. Importantly, underbites don’t self-correct—they can become more pronounced during growth spurts, especially around puberty. Starting treatment in childhood helps prevent worsening and reduces the likelihood of surgery, as studies show early correction can be stable in about two-thirds of cases.

Impact and Risks of Untreated Underbite

Untreated underbites can lead to significant health and function problems. Chewing can become difficult, sometimes resulting in malnutrition due to an inability to eat certain foods. Speech impediments and TMJ (jaw joint) pain are common, and misalignment can cause sleep issues like snoring or even sleep apnea. There’s also increased risk for tooth damage, gum disease, and oral infections due to uneven pressure and trouble cleaning crowded teeth. Aesthetically, underbites often cause a pronounced chin and concave profile, impacting self-confidence and leading to social challenges. These effects are often intertwined, with physical issues influencing psychological health. Correcting an underbite brings broad improvements in function, oral health, and emotional well-being.

Medical Procedures for Underbite Correction

Non-Surgical Orthodontic Interventions

Braces

Braces are common for mild to moderate Class III malocclusion, especially for younger patients:

• Metal Braces: Durable, cost-effective, but visible.
• Ceramic Braces: Tooth-colored for discretion, but pricier and require careful maintenance.
• Self-Ligating (Damon) Braces: Use a sliding mechanism, effective for severe crowding, and can improve facial aesthetics.
• Lingual Braces: Placed behind the teeth for invisibility; more expensive and may be less comfortable.

Braces use brackets and wires to slowly shift teeth and sometimes the jaw. Treatment typically lasts 18–36 months, with regular adjustments.

• Elastics: Used to move jaws by pulling the upper jaw forward.
• Mini-Implants: Provide stable anchor points for shifting teeth and jaw.

Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign)

Clear aligners are custom-made trays that gently shift teeth without wires or brackets. They’re discreet and popular among adults. Best for mild to moderate cases, aligners usually require about 12 months for results, and may be used along with elastics for more complex corrections.

Functional Appliances (for growing patients)

Early treatment (ages 7–8) is most effective:

• Reverse-Pull Headgear: Pulls the upper jaw forward, especially in children.
• Upper Jaw Expander: Gradually widens the upper jaw, worn for about a year.

Tooth Extraction

If overcrowding in the lower jaw contributes to the underbite, removing one or more teeth can create space for alignment.

Risks and Complications of Orthodontic Treatment

• Oral Hygiene Issues: Braces make cleaning harder, increasing the risk for cavities and gum disease.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Sores from brackets and wires may occur but can be managed by an orthodontist.
• Allergic Reactions: Some may react to metals or latex; alternatives are available.
• Root Resorption: Usually minimal but rarely severe.
• Ankylosis: Rarely, a tooth fuses to the jawbone and cannot move with braces.
• Relapse: Teeth can shift back if retainers aren't worn as instructed.

Surgical Orthodontic Interventions (Orthognathic Surgery)

Orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) is reserved for severe skeletal discrepancies:

• Le Fort I Osteotomy (Upper Jaw Surgery): Moves the upper jaw to improve bite and appearance.
• Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy (BSSO - Lower Jaw Surgery): Adjusts the lower jaw.
• Double Jaw Surgery: Combines both for complex cases.
• Genioplasty: Realigns or reshapes the chin, can be standalone or combined.

Pre-Surgical Orthodontics

Pre-surgical braces or aligners (12–18 months) align teeth so they’ll fit together correctly after surgery. Surgery is generally performed after facial growth is complete.

Surgical Planning and Execution

The process involves consultations, scans, and digital planning, with the surgery itself performed under general anesthesia, using incisions inside the mouth to avoid visible scars.

Post-Surgical Recovery and Fine-Tuning

• First week: Swelling peaks then recedes; pain managed with medication; patients stick to a liquid diet.
• 1–3 weeks: Swelling and discomfort decrease, soft foods reintroduced, and healing monitored during follow-ups.
• 6+ months: Full function returns, and orthodontists refine tooth alignment.

Risks and Complications of Orthognathic Surgery

Possible risks include nerve trauma (numbness), jaw relapse, infection, changes in hearing, TMJ problems, anesthesia complications, need for revision surgery, and rare scarring or open bite development.

Best Clinics in Korea for Underbite

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for underbite:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Minish Dental Hospital	Korea’s premier dental hospital, trusted by expats and international patients for family dentistry, cosmetic treatments, and one-day smile makeovers; located in the heart of Gangnam; 14-floor, highly awarded clinic with 19 advanced on-site dental technologies, an in-house laboratory, and leadership from CEO Dr. Jung Ho Kang; supports underbite solutions with comprehensive evaluations, customized pathways, orthodontic treatment, TMJ-focused care, Minish Veneers or Dual Minish, and rapid in-house lab workflows enabling high-quality outcomes, including one-day smile makeovers when appropriate.	Minish Veneers; Dual Minish; orthodontic treatment for tooth and jaw alignment; TMJ-focused care; one-day smile makeovers when appropriate; tailored treatment planning
Gangnam Gentle Dental Clinic	Comprehensive, patient-first dental center known for honest, safe care and brighter, healthier smiles; open on weekdays and weekends with emergency support; designs care plans after thorough consultations; R&D-backed to streamline treatment timelines and reduce hospital visits; emphasizes minimal pain, maximum comfort, and uses advanced digital equipment for precise examinations; infection prevention and sterilization system; led by CEO Sungho Kim; integrates clear-aligner orthodontics, TMJ management, and aesthetic/restorative solutions for underbite care.	Clear-aligner orthodontics; TMJ management; cosmetic and restorative solutions; 3D guided implant planning; Straumann and Osstem implants; advanced digital diagnostics; infection prevention
Minish Dental Clinic - Gangnam	Located in the heart of Gangnam, minish dental clinic delivers high-quality, personalized care for improving both appearance and function of smiles, including underbite-related aesthetic concerns; Minish Veneers are custom-crafted for each tooth to enhance form and function, offering a natural, refined look while protecting the underlying structure; professional teeth whitening can brighten teeth by several shades in a single visit with minimal sensitivity and long-lasting results; every patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to oral health needs and cosmetic goals.	Minish Veneers; teeth whitening; personalized treatment plans; underbite aesthetic solutions

Minish Dental Hospital

Minish Dental Hospital is Korea’s premier dental hospital, trusted by expats and international patients for family dentistry, cosmetic treatments, and one-day smile makeovers. Located in the heart of Gangnam, this 14-floor, most highly awarded clinic in Asia delivers world-class care with no language barriers and has welcomed many celebrities, including BLACKPINK and NewJeans. Renowned for its innovative Minish Veneers and patient-first philosophy, Minish combines cutting-edge treatments with personalized care, backed by 113,118 cases, 84,504 hours of R&D, and a dedicated team of 102 top dentists and technicians. With 19 of the most advanced dental technologies on-site, its own technology company and in-house laboratory, and leadership from CEO Dr. Jung Ho Kang alongside veneer, orthodontic, and general dental specialists, Minish is synonymous with precision, efficiency, and ethical, tailored treatment planning.

For patients seeking solutions for an underbite, Minish provides comprehensive evaluations and customized pathways that may include orthodontic treatment to improve tooth and jaw alignment, TMJ-focused care to protect joint function, and, in select cases, minimally invasive aesthetic options such as Minish Veneers or Dual Minish to harmonize the smile and camouflage minor anterior discrepancies while preserving tooth structure. Seamless collaboration between specialists and rapid in-house lab workflows enable efficient, high-quality outcomes—including one-day smile makeovers when appropriate—making Minish a trusted choice for restoring function and confidence for both local and international patients.

You can check out their website here: Minish Dental Hospital Website

Gangnam Gentle Dental Clinic

Gangnam Gentle Dental Clinic, located in the bustling district of Seocho-gu, Seoul, is a comprehensive, patient-first dental center known for honest, safe care and a commitment to brighter, healthier smiles. Open on weekdays and weekends to align with personal schedules, the clinic provides timely emergency support and designs care plans that focus only on what patients truly need after thorough consultations. Backed by research and development that streamlines treatment timelines and reduces the number of hospital visits, the team emphasizes minimal pain and maximum comfort while using advanced digital equipment for systematic, precise examinations. With an established infection prevention and stringent sterilization system, plus leadership from CEO Sungho Kim, the clinic delivers an integrated approach that makes it a standout destination for underbite-focused care—bringing together clear-aligner orthodontics, TMJ management, and aesthetic and restorative solutions within one trusted setting.

• Underbite-centered care with clear aligners to guide bite correction and TMJ treatments to support jaw function and comfort
• Advanced digital diagnostics and precision-driven planning for accurate assessment and predictable underbite management
• R&D-backed protocols designed to reduce overall treatment time and minimize the number of visits without compromising safety
• Thorough, honest consultations that ensure only necessary treatments are recommended for each underbite case
• Comprehensive in-house services that support full-care pathways:
  • Cavity and filling, root canal, gum treatment, and wisdom tooth extraction
  • Cosmetic Center: minimal shaving veneers, gum contouring, teeth whitening to refine smile aesthetics after bite correction
  • Implant options: 3D guided implant planning, Straumann and Osstem implants for reliable restorative outcomes when needed
• Accessible scheduling with weekday and weekend hours, making timely emergency dental care just a visit away
• A clean, safe environment maintained by an established infection prevention system and stringent sterilization protocols
• Comfort-first philosophy emphasizing minimal pain and a relaxed patient experience
• Led by CEO Sungho Kim, a trusted team delivering comprehensive care that makes the clinic a preferred choice in Gangnam for underbite treatment and beyond

You can check out their website here: Gangnam Gentle Dental Clinic Website

Minish Dental Clinic - Gangnam

Located in the heart of Gangnam, Minish Dental Clinic delivers high-quality, personalized care for patients seeking to elevate both the appearance and function of their smiles, including those addressing underbite-related aesthetic concerns. Minish Veneers are custom-crafted for each tooth to enhance form and function, offering a natural, refined look while protecting the underlying structure—an ideal option for harmonizing the smile line after bite correction or camouflaging minor discrepancies.

To complete the transformation, the clinic’s professional teeth whitening can brighten teeth by several shades in a single visit with minimal sensitivity and long-lasting results. Every patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their oral health needs and cosmetic goals, ensuring optimal outcomes without compromising safety.

You can check out their website here: Minish Dental Clinic - Gangnam Website

The Patient Journey for Underbite Correction in South Korea

South Korea's patient process for underbite correction is highly organized:

• Consultation: Many clinics offer initial online consultations to review records and provide detailed plans and pricing.
• Planning: Clinics handle scheduling, accommodations, and clear communication about fees, often with bundled packages.
• Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: If needed, this phase aligns teeth prior to surgery.
• Surgical Procedure: Advanced imaging and custom 3D planning are used; hospital stays last 1–3 nights.
• Recovery: Includes dietary guidelines and regular follow-ups.
• Language & Culture: Many clinics have English-speaking staff and multilingual translators.
• Legal/Insurance: Patients should ensure proper insurance and visas.
• Clinic Selection: Choose experienced, board-certified clinics with strong reputations and positive reviews.

South Korean clinics often use advanced technologies like 3D imaging and have an emphasis on comprehensive, coordinated care and preventive strategies. The “whole-mouth” focus, preventive care, and convenience for international guests distinguish the Korean experience.

Costs Associated with Underbite Correction in South Korea and International Comparison

Cost of Braces in South Korea

Braces generally cost ₩7,000,000–₩8,000,000 ($4,800–$5,500 USD), with an average of $3,663 in Seoul. Lingual braces usually range from $5,100–$5,800. These prices often include consultations, regular check-ups, adjustments, retainers, and sometimes discounts for upfront payment. A 10% deposit is customary.

Cost of Orthognathic Surgery in South Korea

Orthognathic surgery costs $11,000–$14,000 on average, with prices in Seoul averaging $12,833; minimum reported at $7,000 and some complex cases reaching $25,330. The fee typically covers hospital stay, anesthesia, follow-ups, and post-operative medications, but additional procedures and lengthy orthodontics are separate costs.

Comparison with Other Countries

• Braces: Korea $3,663–$5,500, U.S. $3,000–$8,500, Mexico $450–$5,104, Thailand $932–$2,070, Turkey $500–$5,000.
• Jaw Surgery: Korea $7,000–$25,330, U.S. $18,000–$40,000, Turkey from $2,200, Thailand from $4,200.

While some countries offer lower prices, South Korea stands out with its combination of high-quality care, modern facilities, experienced professionals, and patient-centered services.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes

Underbite correction in Korea delivers significant improvements:

Functional

Patients report restored ability to bite, chew, and speak. Jaw pain, TMJ issues, and speech impediments resolve or greatly improve after treatment.

Aesthetic

Correcting an underbite brings facial balance and symmetry. Patients often experience a dramatic boost in confidence following their transformation.

Psychological

Many describe feeling happier, more self-assured, and better able to participate in social activities after their corrective procedures.

Testimonials

Patients consistently share high satisfaction. Experiences emphasize the importance of starting treatment early and following post-op instructions to maintain results. Recovery is often reported as manageable, with support from kind clinic staff enhancing comfort.

Importance of Early Intervention and Compliance

Addressing underbites early, particularly in childhood, can prevent more complex procedures later. Meticulous compliance with retainers and instructions ensures long-term results.

Conclusions

Underbite (Class III malocclusion) is a significant dental condition affecting health, function, and confidence—but with early intervention and the right treatment plan, highly effective solutions are available. South Korea stands out for its expert care, advanced technology, and cost-effective options, making it a top choice for medical travelers. Patient experiences highlight impressive physical, aesthetic, and psychological gains, particularly for those who intervene early and follow professional guidance.

References

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