Crossbite correction for adults in Dubai — including MARPE expansion
Adults are often told a crossbite can only be fixed by moving teeth or by surgery. Skeletal expansion has changed that for many patients.
Many adult crossbites come from a narrow upper jaw. When the cause is skeletal, miniscrew-assisted expansion (MARPE) can widen the upper jaw without surgery in many adults, followed by braces or aligners to finish the bite.
Key facts
- Often a narrow upper jaw
- 3D imaging confirms the cause
- MARPE — non-surgical in many adults
- Braces or aligners to finish
Dental vs skeletal crossbite
A dental crossbite involves tilted teeth; a skeletal crossbite involves jaw width. 3D imaging tells them apart.
MARPE for adults
An expander anchored with small miniscrews applies force to the bone rather than the teeth, widening the upper jaw.
Finishing the bite
After expansion, braces or aligners align the teeth and close any temporary gap.
In adults the midline suture of the palate has usually fused, so traditional expanders mostly tip teeth instead of widening the jaw. MARPE anchors the expander to the palatal bone with small miniscrews, allowing skeletal expansion in many adults without surgical expansion. Published clinical studies, including randomised trials, report improvements in nasal airway dimensions and, in selected patients, in sleep-disordered breathing measures.
Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-04 · Treating specialist: Dr. Moaiyad Pacha
This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.
Your specialist
Dr. Moaiyad Pacha
Consultant Orthodontist & Partner · Airway & Sleep
Orthodontics, MARPE expansion, airway-focused treatment and Invisalign.
Book your consultation in Dubai
Tell us what you need by form, phone or WhatsApp — our team will match you with the right specialist and confirm a time.
Questions patients ask
Patients visit us from Al Safa, Al Wasl, Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, Al Quoz, City Walk, Business Bay, Downtown Dubai and Al Barsha — and from Sharjah and the wider UAE.
Can a crossbite cause jaw problems?
An uneven bite can contribute to wear, gum recession and jaw strain.
Is MARPE suitable for everyone?
Success depends on suture maturity; imaging helps predict it.
How long does adult crossbite correction take?
Expansion takes weeks; the full treatment usually 12–24 months.
Will expansion change my face?
Changes are usually subtle; some notice a broader smile.
Where can I get crossbite correction adults in Dubai?
At Manhal Medical Center, Building 101, Street 22A, Al Safa 1, Dubai, UAE, with Dr. Moaiyad Pacha (Consultant Orthodontist & Partner · Airway & Sleep). Book by phone, WhatsApp or the form on this page.
Which doctor should I see?
Dr. Moaiyad Pacha (Consultant Orthodontist & Partner · Airway & Sleep) at Manhal Medical Center.
How do I book an appointment?
Use the form on this page, call +971 4 328 4560, or WhatsApp +971 52 987 2411. Our team will match you with the right doctor.
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Building 101, Street 22A, Al Safa 1, Dubai, UAE