Crossbite in children and adults: causes and treatment in Dubai
What a crossbite is, why it matters, and how it is corrected in children and adults at Manhal Medical Center, Dubai.
In a crossbite, some upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth. Back-tooth crossbites are often caused by a narrow upper jaw.
In children, expansion is often straightforward; in adults, skeletal crossbites may need MARPE or surgical expansion.
Signs and symptoms
- Upper teeth sitting inside lower teeth
- Jaw shifting to one side on closing
- Uneven wear
Common causes
- Narrow upper jaw
- Thumb sucking or mouth breathing in childhood
- Tooth eruption problems
When to see a doctor
Children with a crossbite benefit from assessment early, ideally around age seven.
Red flags — seek prompt care
- Jaw shifting noticeably when closing
- Jaw pain or clicking
How it is diagnosed
Clinical bite examination, photographs and imaging of jaw width.
Which doctor to see
Dr. Moaiyad Pacha
Consultant Orthodontist · Airway & Sleep
Orthodontics, MARPE expansion, airway-focused treatment and Invisalign.
Treatment options
In children, expansion is often straightforward; in adults, skeletal crossbites may need MARPE or surgical expansion.
What happens if it is left untreated?
Crossbites can cause uneven wear, gum recession and, in children, asymmetric jaw growth.
Can it come back?
Skeletal correction is stable when retained; dental correction may relapse without retainers.
Prevention
- Assessment around age seven
- Addressing mouth breathing and habits
Questions patients ask
Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-09-23 · Treating specialist: Dr. Moaiyad Pacha
This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.
Will a child grow out of a crossbite?
Skeletal crossbites usually do not self-correct and can lead to asymmetric jaw growth.
Which doctor treats crossbite in Dubai?
At Manhal Medical Center in Al Safa 1, crossbite is assessed by Dr. Moaiyad Pacha (Consultant Orthodontist · Airway & Sleep).
How is crossbite diagnosed?
Clinical bite examination, photographs and imaging of jaw width.
When should I see a doctor about crossbite?
Children with a crossbite benefit from assessment early, ideally around age seven.
What treatments are available for crossbite?
Depending on the cause: MARPE — Adult Palatal Expansion, Early Orthodontics for Children, Traditional Braces. In children, expansion is often straightforward; in adults, skeletal crossbites may need MARPE or surgical expansion.
Can crossbite come back?
Skeletal correction is stable when retained; dental correction may relapse without retainers.
Can crossbite be prevented?
Assessment around age seven; Addressing mouth breathing and habits.
Where is Manhal Medical Center?
We are at Building 101, Street 22A, Al Safa 1, Dubai, UAE, between Al Wasl Road and Sheikh Zayed Road, with easy access from Jumeirah, City Walk, Downtown and Business Bay.
Related conditions
Further reading
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Building 101, Street 22A, Al Safa 1, Dubai, UAE