Expert: Kitty Kavey - 12/6/2006

Question
if i want to be an model and lets say i have everything in good shape, but my teeth are not striaght. would that be somehting that would hold me back from my dreams?

Answer
Unfortunately, symmetry and being as flawless as possible are important traits when becoming a model.  Anything that distracts from what the model is selling can be something difficult to work around.  I do know several models who have had braces (before Invisalign), and their agent/photographers worked around that.  Some agents are accommodating like that, and some will just tell you to come back when you're done with braces.  Luckily, nowadays there are products like Invisalign, or braces that are worn in the back of the teeth (and thus not noticeable) or one can elect to have veneers which, although expensive, can correct a smile in one day.  If it is something that bothers you, or lessens your ability to feel confident, then you can look into the various options you have to fix it.  If it doesn't bother you, or affect your self-confidence, and no one else seems to notice your teeth - then perhaps it's not going to be an issue.  Certainly your agent or manager will advise you on what they believe will make you more marketable.  My teeth are less than perfect, but it was not enough to be noticeable to anyone but me.  I couldn't book the toothpaste commercials, but it never held me back in any other area.  I currently have Invisalign, which I don't wear when I'm on-camera.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty