Hi there

It seems that I have always had "deep bite" - my upper front teeth grow slightly inwards and press against the middle-bottom of my lower front teeth when I close my mouth (some years ago, one of the lower teeth chipped and needed to be built up again). I also have a missing upper tooth on each side, 3 fron the back.

After some recent dental treatment (just fillings) when away in Russia, I became especially conscious of my upper front teeth pressing on my lower ones to the extent that even chewing was less comfortable. I also felt the corners of the teeth to either side of my missing ones pressing down on the teeth below. I think I probably press my teeth together at night, which doesn't help... As time passes after the treatment, I am less aware of these things, but it has made me consider the general health of my teeth.

I went to see a dentist who didn't seem to understand the problem and so suggested referring me to an orthodontist to sort out the situation; but is this really the best way forward? Would a simple set of braces resolve this permanently? I have heard stories of people's teeth lapsing back into their original positions in the years following orthodontic treatment, and of problems arising with the aligment of the jaws and so on. It seems to create as many new problems as it solves.

On the other hand, I am not very clear about what will happen if I don't have braces. Will things just get worse and worse until I need emergency treatment, and have more and more complications?

Is there a type of treatment that can truly resolve these problems? And if so, does anyone have any tips on how to find a good dentist who really has a deep all-round understanding of how these things work?

BTW - I am 37 years old.

Orthodontics is an excellent way to correct the problem. I'm not sure though if you might need to have some surgery too? You'd have to clarify that with the orthodontist.
As for relapse, when the braces come off you are given a retainer to wear. This keeps the teeth in place as you are right, the teeth will try to go back to where they started. Sometimes the orthodontist will cement the retainer in so you can't get in to the habit of not wearing it.
Orthodontics can be done at any age. As an adult the teeth just may move a little slower.

That kind of problam esp in an adult is USUALLY a surgical case... the only way to find out is to go to an orthodontist... its painful and a long process so beware

Don't let Amir scare you. Go to an orthodontist for a consultation. The process and discomfort (if there is any) is generally worth it in the end.

Amir, If you haven't had the same procedure done yourself then don't scare the guy! As you should be well aware everyone has different pain threshholds. Yes, they should be INFORMED of the possibility for liability reasons. I've seen adult clients who have had this treatment done. They have all been thrilled with the final result and I cannot recall any of them talking about PAIN.

From orthognathic surgery! No pain? Having your maxilla broken and moved down and your jaw broken and moved forward will always hurt... plus it almost always causes permanent nerve damage but yes it can be worth it