Best orthodontist in Dubai: how to choose a specialist for braces or aligners

Key facts

• Check for a DHA specialist orthodontics licence on Sheryan
• Records should include examination, scan and X-rays; CBCT when needed
• A wide appliance range means the plan fits your problem
• Retainers and follow-up should be agreed before treatment
• Dr. Moaiyad Pacha: consultant orthodontist, PhD, M.Orth and F.Orth

Specialist registration comes first

Orthodontic treatment can be provided by general dentists in some settings, but a specialist orthodontist has completed several years of full-time postgraduate training dedicated to tooth movement, jaw growth and bite correction. In Dubai, check the DHA licence on Sheryan: it shows whether the dentist is licensed as a specialist in orthodontics and at what grade. A consultant grade usually reflects additional years of experience and higher qualifications. For straightforward alignment many routes may work, but for crossbites, deep or open bites, jaw discrepancies, impacted teeth or adults with gum or joint concerns, specialist planning makes a real difference to the outcome and to avoiding problems later.

Proper diagnosis and records

A thorough orthodontic assessment usually includes a clinical examination of the teeth, jaws, face and joints, photographs, a digital intraoral scan and X-rays. Where expansion, impacted teeth, joint or airway questions are involved, CBCT 3D imaging may be recommended. The orthodontist should explain the diagnosis in plain words, which problems the treatment will and will not address, and why one appliance is chosen over another. Be cautious if you are offered aligners after a quick photo or a scan with no examination by an orthodontist. A plan that considers the bite, the jaw relationship and how the face and smile will look is more reliable than one focused only on straightening the front teeth.

A full range of appliances

No single appliance suits every patient. An orthodontist who offers fixed braces in metal or ceramic, clear aligners such as Invisalign, functional appliances for growing children, palatal expanders and skeletal anchorage with mini-implants (TADs) can choose what fits your problem rather than fitting your problem to one system. Adults with narrow upper jaws may need miniscrew-assisted expansion (MARPE) before alignment, and some cases combine aligners with TADs or a short phase of braces for precise control. Ask why a particular appliance is recommended, what the alternatives are and what happens if progress is slower than expected, including whether refinements or extra appliances are part of the plan.

Retention planning from the start

Teeth tend to move after braces or aligners come off, which is why retention is part of every orthodontic plan, not an afterthought. A good orthodontist explains before treatment begins which retainers will be used, fixed wires behind the teeth, removable clear retainers or both, how long to wear them and how often they should be checked. Ask who replaces a lost or broken retainer and how follow-up is arranged. Long-term stability also depends on the original diagnosis: correcting the bite and jaw width properly, rather than only tipping teeth, generally gives a more stable result. Honest discussion of retention is one of the clearest signs of a careful orthodontist.

Dr. Moaiyad Pacha at Manhal Medical Center

At Manhal Medical Center in Dubai, orthodontics is provided by Dr. Moaiyad Pacha, Consultant Orthodontist and Partner (DHA licence 52229421-001, Specialist Orthodontics). He holds a clinical PhD from Queen Mary University of London, focused on jaw growth modification, the M.Orth from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, the F.Orth from the Royal College of Surgeons of England and FHEA. He received the American Association of Orthodontists' David L. Turpin Award in 2021 and the B.F. & Helen E. Dewel Award in 2024 for research. With more than 15 years of experience, he practises in London and in Dubai, treating adults and children with braces, Invisalign, MARPE, MSE, functional appliances, TADs and airway and TMJ-focused orthodontics. Contact the clinic for his Dubai dates.

It is never too late to straighten teeth. Adult orthodontics often works alongside implants, veneers or gum treatment, and discreet appliances fit professional life.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Moaiyad Pacha

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.