Orthodontics

Our orthodontic teams help children and adults straighten teeth and correct bites, from crowded or protruding teeth to how the jaws meet. This care sits within our dental services in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, so treatment and its reviews stay close to home.

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the part of dentistry that aligns the teeth and corrects the bite in children and adults. Orthodontists diagnose and treat problems such as crowding, gaps, and an uneven bite, using appliances that gradually move the teeth into the correct position.

For developing children, interceptive orthodontics may also help guide jaw growth. Treatment options can include braces, clear aligners, retainers and, where appropriate, Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs). Severe jaw problems may require treatment with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Your general dentist continues to look after your everyday tooth and gum health during orthodontic treatment.

When should you see an orthodontist?

Book an appointment if you notice:

• Crowded, crooked or protruding teeth
• Gaps between the teeth
• Teeth that meet unevenly when you bite
• A jaw that clicks, shifts or feels out of line
• A tooth that has not come through as expected
• A child sucking a thumb or losing baby teeth early or late
• A baby tooth that has not fallen out as expected (a retained baby tooth)

Orthodontists also see people who simply want to straighten their teeth, with no symptoms at all. Children are often first checked around the age of seven, when a mix of baby and adult teeth lets problems show early. An early check can spot a problem before the jaw finishes growing, which sometimes makes later treatment simpler; many adults start treatment much later in life. Orthodontic care is often referral-led, so your dentist may refer you for an assessment, though in some cases you can arrange one directly.

What to expect

Your first visit starts with the orthodontist examining your teeth, jaws and bite and asking what you would like to change. To plan treatment, they may take dental X-rays, impressions or a digital scan. These help show how your teeth and jaws relate and guide the most appropriate treatment.

Before starting orthodontic treatment, your teeth and gums need to be healthy, so any tooth decay or gum disease will usually need to be treated first by your dentist. In some cases, adult teeth may also need to be removed to create enough space for treatment.

Treatment may involve fixed braces or clear aligners, which are more commonly used for teenagers and adults. Younger children may need treatment in two phases, depending on their age and condition. This can include an appliance to guide jaw growth, followed by braces at a later stage. Once your teeth are in position, you'll usually wear a retainer to help keep them there. Your orthodontist will explain the options, how long treatment may take and how to care for your teeth during treatment.

Orthodontics at Mediclinic

Our orthodontists care for children and adults across our dental clinics and hospitals in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain. They work alongside your dentist when dental treatment is needed before or during orthodontic care. Treatment options include fixed braces, including tooth-coloured braces, and clear aligners. For younger children, interceptive orthodontics can help guide jaw growth and address developing problems such as crowding and crossbites before full alignment of the adult teeth. Orthodontic treatment can improve both the appearance and function of your teeth and bite, including chewing and speech, while helping protect teeth from uneven wear.